What if I die overseas?

[floydragsdale]

One decision all 424th Regiment Soldiers had to make while on the Acquitania going overseas was a sobering one, to say the least.

We were given a simple form with a question that read, "if you die while you are overseas what do you want done with your remains?

We were given a choice of being buried over there, or sent home.

Almost everyone thought, "What difference does it make, bury me where I fall".

We had to put an X in a box, in one of two places on that form and give it back to the officer in charge.

The American Military Cemeteries in France, Belgium and Luxembourg testify to a Soldiers decision.

Yes, some remains were shipped home, yet the majority of those who lost their life, "over there" were buried not too far from where they fell.

Floyd

[connie]

Hi, Floyd,

Thanks for this post. It must have been extremely sobering for a 20 year old to have to fill out papers of this nature.

The burial history is not something often discussed. But as you can testify, the American Battle Monuments does a beautiful job of maintaining these cemeteries and honoring our war dead. The people of Belgium (and probably other places) also have not forgotten these men. Annually I know that there is a stirring grave adoption ceremony at Henri Chappelle cemetery in Belgium and probably other places, too. Those adopting the graves visit them and work to learn more of the history of the men buried there.

Floyd can probably tell you more of his take on this grave adoption ceremony as he and I both witnessed one. (Carl has likewise probably seen a number of these). I found it an overwhelmingly moving experience.

Connie
PS. Not all those lost in the 106th are buried at Henri Chappelle, but a good number are. Here's the cite for that cemetery: www.abmc.gov/cemeteries/cemeteries/hc.php

[floydragsdale]

Hi Connie: This Veteran was one month past his 19th birthday when he signed that form. Just below, if it opens, is a photo of a Belgian School Teacher surrounded by his students at Henry Chapelle American Cemetery. I met them there in Sept. 2010 while we were in Belgium. Teacher & his class of school children had already adopted graves of American Soldiers. - - - Floyd

P.S. Yes, it was a sobering thought to be confronted with a decision such as that, particularly just a month after my 19th birthday.


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