“The attitude of one nation toward another determines in large measure


what will be the attitude of that other nation . . . Confi dence stimulates


confi dence, and trust inspires trust.” – JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL


those names, Lemley reported, following JPAC’s verifi cation of the remains of a soldier found recently.


The 57-acre cemetery itself is situated on the crest of a ridge with an excellent view to the east and west. As Senior Vice-President Lemley approached the steps leading to the gravesites, a short wreath-laying service was held with a tribute by Superintendent Bell, which was followed by Taps and the national anthem. In the background, a bronze statue of the “Angel of Peace” bestows the olive branch upon the heroic dead, including 38 sets of brothers interred there. The cemetery was originally the mass burial


site of approximately 17,900 soldiers. After the war, families made the choice between transporting their loved ones’ remains back to America or keeping them at the site, and 7,900 chose Belgium as a fi tting resting place. “I cannot express how warm and welcoming the people of Belgium made us feel just for being part of the veterans community,” Lemley said. “It’s like they’re family. They’ve adopted them [Americans interred there].They put fl owers on the graves.” The last moments of


Lemley’s visit gave her the opportunity to express the Ladies Auxiliary’s gratitude in a less formal way. She thanked the four groundskeepers trimming trees at the cemetery


MARCH 2012 19


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