Luxembourg is a small country bordered by Belgium, France and Germany and an overnight stay wasn't that far out of the way. To be fair, you can't experience a place in less than 24 hours (or even in a year) but the city of Luxembourg is lovely from what we did see. (And I got number 24 on my Fifty by 50 plan.)
We were delayed by road construction so arrived a bit later than planned. After getting checked into the hotel, we went for a little bit of an explore and dinner. The next morning we were up and out early to visit the American Military Cemetery and on our way to Rheims by lunchtime.
The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is the world's only remaining Grand Duchy. They have a constitutional monarch as the head of state who is the Grand Duke. Luxembourg has one of the world's highest GDP's per capita and there are three official languages, Luxembourgish, French and German.
Just outside of town is the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial. The white stone chapel and memorial is adorned with the angel of peace. Inside is a beautiful mosaic ceiling featuring a dove of peace surrounded by angels. There are two pillars that contain information about the battles and also the names of missing soldiers who were buried in unmarked graves.
These 50.5 acres are the burial place for 5,075 American servicemen and one female Army nurse most of them killed during the Battle of the Bulge in 1944-45. Luxembourg was the headquarters for General Patton and he is buried here among his men. The white marble crosses and Stars of David extend in solemn lines in every direction.
Like all cemeteries, it is a haunting place. The only sound was the wind and birds. My thoughts turned mostly to the fact that each of those crosses or stars represented a mother's child, a life that was taken by violence too soon. And yes, I felt patriotic.
Since becoming an expat, I've noticed that often U.S. Americans are criticized and judged for their level of patriotism. It makes me sad that my shedding a tear in an American military cemetery in Europe will be met by some with an eye roll or knowing scoff.
Patriotism is love and devotion to one's country and that is what I feel. America is my home. It's what I know and love. Does that mean that I buy into nationalism, ethnocentrism or xenophobia? Of course not. Does it mean that I think we have all the answers? Obviously we don't. Does it mean that I agree with every decision made by US leaders? I certainly don't. My patriotism says nothing about other countries and cultures. It's not a comparison or a judgement of others. It's simply my love of home and pride in my country and the things that we get right.
What does patriotism mean to you?
Deep thoughts today, huh?
Don't worry. We'll be getting to the bubbly stuff soon.
Next stop is France and the Champagne district!
