Delius Diaries

An hour’s drive outside of Brussels is Flanders Field, an American WWI cemetery. The local scouting troops lead the ceremony honoring the fallen on this day of remembrance. I had the privilege of being escorted by two uniformed handsome men, Scott in is Army uniform and Connor in his Boy Scout uniform.

Armistice Day in Europe takes a different tone than what we feel in the U.S. Similarly, it is a national holiday, however majority of stores, shops and eateries are closed for the day. Schools and businesses have the day off. This day feels more personal to Europeans. While our soldiers fought here, the battle was in their hometown. They are grateful to Americans for sending our greatest treasure to help fight evil.

There are 411 American soldiers in the Flanders Field Cemetery. We arrived early for Connor to prep and practice for the ceremony. It was a chilly 43 degree morning. Scott and I walked the grounds and noticed a few of the graves had fresh flowers. Over the next almost 3-hours, we saw local families (young and old) and individuals bring flowers to graves, say a prayer and take a photo. We later learned in the small but very well put together museum, that local families adopt a solider (sometimes more than one) and maintain the gravesite with flowers. In addition, through the years they have communicated with a relative in the U.S. to send photos and updates. It is very sweet and really warmed our hearts today. The museum includes a video of local Belgium residents conveying how much they appreciate that Americans came to Belgium to liberate them so that now “they are free to be happy and we don’t have to speak German”, as noted by a local girl.

Connor participated in the ceremony helping to place wreaths from local organizations. He braved the cold in his uniform, proud of what he represents. We of course were very proud of him and the other scouts, both American and Belgium troops. It was a special morning and one we will all remember.

Thank you Veterans for what you have given to so many across the world with your time, talent and, for some, your life. We love you!