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In September 1944, about eight months prior to the end of World War II, Allied forces began liberating southern portions of the Netherlands to include the town of Margraten, where the Netherlands American Cemetery exists today. Prior to the liberation, the Dutch people had been living under Nazi-occupied rule for years, facing starvation, loss of culture and identity, and the elimination of democracy.
More than 70 years later, the special connection between the Dutch and Americans that was first forged when American GIs began liberating the region remains as strong as ever. One example of this lasting relationship is the honor and remembrance bestowed upon these burial grounds by the local Dutch citizens. More than 10,000 Americans are buried or memorialized within these hallowed grounds, and every headstone and name on the Wall of the Missing has been adopted by a local. To help celebrate this unwavering friendship, ABMC is releasing an original, short film, The Journey Back.
The Journey Back profiles the story of SSgt. Max Chotin who died November 3, 1945, nearly six months after the war in Europe had ended. He is buried in Plot A, Row 7, Grave 8 at the Netherlands American Cemetery. In this film his son Arthur returns to his final resting place to deliver a meaningful thank you to the Dutch people during the 2015 Memorial Day Ceremony. During his journey back, Arthur meets the Naaijkens family for the first time, the family that has adopted his father’s gravesite.
The Journey Back shows the mutual respect and appreciation between the American and the Dutch people as told through the friendship of the Chotin and Naaijkens’ families.
About ABMC
Established in 1923 by Congress, ABMC is a U.S. government agency charged with commemorating the service, achievements and sacrifice of the U.S. Armed Forces where they have served overseas since 1917. ABMC administers our nation’s commemorative cemeteries and federal memorials overseas. For more information visit www.abmc.gov, or connect with us on Facebook, Youtube or Instagram.
