Decision To Remove Black World War II Exhibit At National Cemetery Leaves Many Deeply Hurt

In the brutal winter of 1944, 19-year-old 1st Sgt. Jefferson Wiggins and many other Black soldiers were assigned to the grim task of burying the dead in southern Netherlands amidst some of World War II's fiercest combat. What had once served as a fruit orchard became the final resting place for countless U.S. service members. The work was harrowing, conducted under incessant rain and snow, utilizing only picks and shovels. Wiggins reflected on the emotional burden borne by his troops as they interred their fallen comrades.Located in Margraten, this cemetery has emerged as one of Europe's most significant American military burial sites. Recently, however, the American Battle Monuments Commission chose to remove a display honoring Black soldiers like Wiggins, who rose to first lieutenant and passed away in 2013. His widow, Janice Wiggins, expressed her dismay, emphasizing the significance of acknowledging the contributions and sacrifices made by these soldiers during a tumultuous era.

Image Credit: (Wikipedia Commons)