In brief
In a heartwarming story of remembrance, June West Brandt, a 93-year-old from Texas, learns her late brother, a WWII soldier, is honored by Dutch couple Lisa and Guido Meijers. This connection arises from the Forever Promise Project, aimed at linking families with those who care for grave markers of lost service members at the Netherlands American Cemetery. The initiative highlights the importance of honoring sacrifices made during the war, as the Meijers visit Brandt's brother’s marker monthly, reflecting the deep gratitude of the Dutch for their liberators.
DALLAS (AP) — June West Brandt has never forgotten her older brother, who was killed in World War II. Recently, she discovered that his legacy is also cherished by a Dutch couple who visit his memorial regularly.
Brandt, 93, expressed joy at knowing someone remembers her brother, who was passionate about music and art. Her newfound connection was birthed from an initiative aimed at bridging the gap between American families and the Dutch individuals who adopt the graves of U.S. soldiers.
This project stems from Robert Edsel's efforts, the author of 'The Monuments Men,' and his new book ‘Remember Us’ which details an adoption program at the Netherlands American Cemetery. Edsel's foundation partnered with the Dutch organization responsible for these adoptions, creating the Forever Promise Project—complete with a searchable database of U.S. service members commemorated at the cemetery.
Edsel voiced his aspirations to connect more American families with their Dutch adopters, emphasizing the importance of these bonds. The Foundation for Adopting Graves reports that while all 8,300 graves and 1,700 missing markers have adopters, only 20-30% are in contact with the soldier’s relatives.
The Meijers adopted the marker for Army Air Forces Staff Sgt. William Durham “W.D.” West Jr., whose body was lost after his B-24 bomber was shot down. Through conversations with Brandt, the couple learned more about her brother's vibrant personality and creative pursuits.
Brandt fondly recalled their close bond growing up in Louisiana, which made his absence all the more profound. Her daughter, Allison Brandt Woods, cherishes the connection with the Meijers and hopes it will last through generations.
The cemetery, located near Margraten, marks a significant site of remembrance from World War II, liberated in 1944. The Meijers, who have a young child, visit the cemetery monthly, bringing flowers to honor West’s memory.
Interest in the adoption program is high, with a waiting list in place. The initiative began to take shape in the aftermath of the war, with community members seeking ways to express gratitude to those who sacrificed their lives for freedom. Many graves have been cared for by the same families for decades, demonstrating a deep, ongoing commitment to remembrance.
Edsel reported that over 300 families have reached out in hopes of connecting with their adopters, with interest in the program continuing to grow.
