Is Memorial Day just celebrated in the U.S.A. ?
Memorial Day commemorates all men and women who have died in military service for the United States. In Belgium the American soldiers who died for the liberation of Europe are remembered each year. These days this is probably not well-known but Belgium honours the fallen soldiers who fought for liberation in South of Belgium.
You may know about the famous battles around Bastogne and its monument. There is also a very large cemetery at Neuville-en-Condroz in the Liege region of Belgium. Here the local people honour the U.S. Memorial Day and school children participate and have knowledge of the history of this period of World War 2.
The Belgian TV news RTBF carried a news spot on the commemorations held at this cemetery. Video in French language can be viewed on this link.
The 5,329 soldiers in this cemetery are remembered and not forgotten by a grateful people.
Just read this article the other day and had to let you see what a great article it is. I remember that you are always saying what a paradise it is!!
http://theweek.com/articles/724144/tasting-melting-pot-mauritius
Thanks for reading my blog.
Mike, thank you for posting. It is heartening to know that other countries still respect and honor our fallen who gave so much for their freedom in WWII. I hope it continues to be perpetuated for many generations to come.
I am aware of how well the people of Belgium care for the gravesites of our soldiers, as well as those of the other Allied nations. They have always been very grateful and respectful. I thank you for teaching others of their honor.
With the passing of time I feel it is important to show that the cemeteries and graves of the fallen are kept clean and honoured by the local population.