WWII+Luxembourg+American+Cemetery+and+Memorial

WWII Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial This cemetery is home to 5076 American members who served in the military and passed during World War II, more specifically the Battle of the Bulge. It was founded by the 609th Quartermaster Company of the U.S. Third Army in December of 1944. The Quartermaster Company is an organization that helped a lot with the rising conflicts in Europe by providing everything from water to clothing for the soldiers. The lawn, approximately 17 acres, is encompassed by about 33.5 acres of woods. Although it may appear that the cemetery is remote, just three miles east is the center of Luxembourg City. The WWII Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial first served as a temporary place to bury the bodies of people who have fallen during the Battle of the Bulge. It is said that the place of the cemetery was convenient at the time because of its closeness to Luxembourg City. The capital was the headquarters for the troops of General George S. Patton. George, renowned for his great leadership during two battles in WWII, was buried here on December 24, 1945. He had asked to be buried among his troops, which was located in the middle left section of the cemetery. However, after two years he was moved towards the front in a spot that had a view of all the other graves. One admired piece of the cemetery is the white stone chapel that stands near the entrance on a circular platform. The chapel features a detailed sculpture out front that is made of bronze and stone, with words underneath that read, “Here is enshrined the memory of valor and sacrifice.” On other sides of the chapel there is a list of the accomplishments the American Armed Forces have made. Sadly, there is also a wall of 371 names of people who were missing near the area. Other special features of this chapel are: a stained glass window and an intricate mosaic that lines the ceiling. If you would like to know any information about the stories that lie behind the cemetery, it is highly recommended to ask a staff member such questions. When open to the public, there is always a worker in the Visitors’ Building that shares much information about the cemetery.