French Town of Raon-l’Etape Adopts Graves at Epinal American Cemetery
In the towns and villages of northern France, where American forces liberated the French people during World War II, the memory of our fallen is far from forgotten. Local citizens come to ABMC cemeteries and lay flowers at their adopted graves as a gesture of their appreciation. The adoption of a gravesite does not mean the person cleans the headstone or cuts the grass, rather the individual brings flowers and usually researches the person that gave their life. They “adopt” the memory of that service member into their family, ensuring the youngest generation understands the ultimate sacrifice paid by Americans decades earlier.
This week citizens from Raon-l’Etape gathered at Epinal American Cemetery to adopt two graves. In a ceremony organized by the U.S. Memory Grand EST France Association, the mayor of the town delivered beautiful remarks about the sacrifice of Pfc. Fred D. Werner and Pfc. Jacob J. Buck, Jr. Both were serving in the 100th Infantry Division when they were killed in November 1944. By adopting these graves, the town has ensured these men will not be forgotten.