“Heroism doesn’t always happen in a burst of glory.
Sometimes small triumphs and large hearts change the course of history.”
— Mary Roach

The gateway to the Luxembourg American Cemetary opens wide inviting visitors to remember the thousands who died in the midst of war. The rows of white crosses bear the names of those souls and acknowledge those missing—or never found.

names of missing soldiers engraved on a stone wall at the Luxembourg American Cemetery

We often forget the path these men and women followed for democracy and respect for humankind. Nothing changes your perspective on the history and details of war as walking through somber memorials and crosses. 

pathway lined by trees with a grey sky in the background

Each life lost and those who returned scarred by the price they paid to serve and protect deserve our respect and remembrance. 

a single white cross against the green grass at the Luxembourg American Cemetery

We owe these men and women gratitude, but we also have a responsibility to ensure democracy for their children and future generations. We must not lose sight of why they died and for what.

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that
the highest appreciation is not to utter the words, but to live by them.”
—John F. Kennedy

* * *

My thanks to Dan Antion who loves the craftsmanship of wooden doors. I thought I was alone in my fascination for doors, and I also have hundreds of photos to prove it. Visit Thursday Doors and delight in what you may find.

And always—

Be kind. Be brave. Be you.

Photos: Kathryn LeRoy