The sacrifice and efforts made by the American people to defeat tyranny, liberate conquered nations, defend representative governments, and end human slavery during World War II are unprecedented in history. The American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) honors the 224,000 U.S. service members killed or missing in action, managing 26 U.S. military cemeteries and 31 memorials in 17 different countries. In addition to well-known victories like the liberation of France and defeat of Imperial Japan, the United States also assisted in liberating nations such as Algeria, Greece, China, and Indonesia.
ABMC secretary Charles K. Djou emphasizes that the sacrifices made by American war heroes overseas demonstrate a commitment to freedom, liberty, and democracy. Despite the enormous cost, the United States only asks for a few plots of land to bury their dead. This Memorial Day, it is important to recognize and remember the heroes who continue to serve beyond their deaths. The article highlights five cemeteries in unexpected locations, such as Luxembourg, Mexico, Panama, the Philippines, and Tunisia, paying tribute to the American soldiers who fought and died in these regions.
In Luxembourg, over 5,000 American GIs are buried at the Luxembourg American Cemetery, including General George S. Patton who is laid to rest facing his men. In Mexico City, the Mexico City National Cemetery commemorates the sacrifice of 813 Americans who died in the Mexican-American War, with a monument that honors 750 unidentified soldiers. The Corozal American Cemetery in Panama reflects the American presence in building the Panama Canal and pays tribute to 5,557 service members buried there from various conflicts throughout history.
The Manila American Cemetery in the Philippines is the largest U.S.-operated cemetery, holding the remains of 16,859 Americans who were killed in World War II, along with a memorial for 36,286 missing in action. Clark Veterans Cemetery in the Philippines is another site where 8,000 American soldiers are laid to rest. In North Africa, the North Africa American Cemetery and Memorial serves as a reminder of the cost of defeating Adolf Hitler and the Nazis, with 2,841 U.S. war dead buried there and a memorial listing 3,724 missing in action.
Overall, the ABMC’s commitment to honoring American war heroes buried overseas reflects the dedication to upholding democratic values and securing liberty around the world. The sacrifices made by U.S. service members in various conflicts, including World War II, exemplify the selfless commitment to defending freedom and democracy. As Americans celebrate Memorial Day and beyond, it is essential to remember and pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
