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7mo ago

Dutch Families Honor Fallen WWII American Soldiers Through Grave Adoption

The Netherlands American Cemetery commemorates 80 years since liberation with a concert and ongoing traditions of remembrance.

Maurice Claessen and Peggy Kuijpers adopted the grave of Paul Akosevich years ago. They're still hoping to find out more about him.
World War II expert Arie-Jan van Hees, a local resident and retired member of the Dutch military, provides guided tours of the cemetery. He and his family adopted a soldier's gravesite in 2005.
“Because World War II didn’t take place on American soil, it’s a different feeling when you’re standing in this landscape," said the cemetery's superintendent.
The 65.5-acre cemetery honors about 10,000 US soldiers who died in World War II.

Overview

  • Dutch citizens have adopted graves of American soldiers at the Netherlands American Cemetery, maintaining a tradition since 1945.
  • The cemetery, located in Margraten, spans 65.5 acres and is the final resting place for about 8,300 American soldiers.
  • Adopters regularly visit the graves, leaving flowers and forming connections with the soldiers' families in the United States.
  • The 80th anniversary of the Netherlands' liberation is marked by a concert and other commemorative events attended by Dutch royalty and U.S. veterans.
  • The grave adoption program has created lasting bonds and ensures future generations remember the sacrifices made for freedom.