Joan of Arc monument in Philadelphia
Luxembourg American Cemetery Chapel

Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial

When I learned that Patton was buried 10 minutes from my hotel in Luxembourg, I had to make the pilgrimage. The Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial is a bit of touristy place, but it is well worth the trip. The following description, photos, and video comes from my trip there on April 18, 2013.

There is plenty to say about the history of the cemetery. Americans liberated the spot from German occupation on September 10, 1944. The spot became a temporary burial ground, but the Luxembourg government made it a permanent home for American fallen without any charge or tax. It currently houses 5,076 headstones of fallen Americans.

When we pulled up, there was a bus of tourists emptying.

Luxembourg American Cemetery Gate

After you pass the gate, you can see a large chapel, flanked by two giant maps depicting the Battle of the Bulge (1944-1945).

Luxembourg American Cemetery Chapel

The inside of the chapel is available for anyone who wants to pray.

Luxembourg American Cemetery Chapel

The leader of the bus tour group used the magnificent maps on either side of the chapel to describe the battle.

Luxembourg American Cemetery Map

Luxembourg American Cemetery Map

Luxembourg American Cemetery Map

Patton’s grave sits on its own. He was originally buried among the other troops, but they eventually moved him, as visitors always trekked to his grave, disturbing the surrounding ground.

Luxembourg American Cemetery Patton Grave

With more than 50 acres, the site is impressive.

Luxembourg American Cemetery

Here is a video scanning the cemetery.

The experience was worthwhile and visitors will note the experience to be distinctly American. The site is reminiscent of national cemeteries in the States and other parts of the world.

Further Reading

Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial by American Battle Monuments Commission

Snow and Steel: The Battle of the Bulge, 1944-45 (2015) by Peter Caddick-Adams

Luxembourg: History, Landscape, and Traditions (2017) by Stephane Bern


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