#15 Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial

The Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial covers 30.5 acres. The use of the land was granted in perpetuity by the University of Cambridge. The American Battle Monuments Commission is the guardian. We want to express our gratitude to both organizations for their generosity of spirit and thoughtful planning.

The headstones were laid out in such a way that from every angle perfect symmetry was maintained. This was a very moving experience for us. I shed a few tears remembering my 2 brothers and an uncle who served in WWII. All three came home. A lone older gentleman walked the grounds; a family gathered by a Star of David and carried out the Jewish tradition of leaving a few pebbles on top of the marker. This signifies that someone has honored the deceased person’s memory with a visit to the grave. A nice example of this is shown at the end of the movie Schindler’s List.

This is a cross for an unknown soldier and is one of 24 such markers. We observed workers hand-trimming around each marker, thereby insuring that the quietness and serenity were not disturbed.

5,127 names are recorded on the Tablets of the Missing. Two names of note were A. Glenn Miller and Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr.

The bronze inscription over the doorway to the Chapel reads: INTO THY HANDS O LORD.  The chapel interior is decorated with beautiful murals, stunning relief maps of operations, and an altar displaying two American flags. The words "proud and grateful" express the American people's sentiments.

The mall with reflecting pool is breathtaking. Beautiful hymns rang out over the grounds, adding much to the solemnity. It's as if someone thought of everything appropriate.