DALLAS (AP) — For June West Brandt, the memory of her older brother, killed in World War II, has always been a cherished part of her life. It brings her joy to know that he is also being remembered by a caring Dutch couple who regularly visit his marker at a Netherlands cemetery.
Brandt, now 93 and living near Houston, expressed her delight at discovering the efforts of Lisa and Guido Meijers, who adopted the marker for Army Air Forces Staff Sgt. William Durham W.D. West Jr. Their connection stems from a new initiative designed to strengthen ties between the family members of those buried at the World War II Netherlands American Cemetery and the Dutch citizens who have adopted their graves.
This program, inspired by author Robert Edsel’s latest book Remember Us, aims to encourage connections and to honor the soldiers' sacrifices. Edsel stated, “I’d like us to find and connect as many American families to their Dutch adopters as possible.”
Over 8,300 graves and 1,700 missing markers are located at the cemetery near Margraten, with adopters for each one, though only about 20% to 30% maintain contact with family members. The Meijers discovered that West was much more than just a name; through conversations with Brandt, they have learned about his artistic passions—he loved painting and played the piano by ear. As his younger sister recalls, they were inseparable growing up in DeRidder, Louisiana.
Lisa Meijers articulated how getting to know West's story has changed how they remember him, highlighting the importance of personal connections in commemorating heroes.
A joyful encounter occurred when Allison Brandt Woods, Brandt's daughter, met the Meijers on a visit to the cemetery, expressing hope that this bond would extend to future generations. It reinforces the idea that the cemetery serves as a reminder of World War II's impact in the southern Netherlands, which saw liberation in September 1944.
The Meijers, who visit West's marker monthly to lay flowers, exemplify the connection and responsibility that have grown from the adoption program. The initiative is gaining traction, as there is now a waiting list for families wishing to adopt graves, showing its popularity and profound significance.
Founded after a 1945 town council meeting in Margraten, the program sought to ensure that the sacrifices of liberators are honored and remembered. Edsel noted that over 300 families have requested contact with their adopters, hoping to establish a lasting legacy that keeps alive the stories of those who served and their enduring connections across borders.
