Removal of Displays Honoring Black American Soldiers
A recent article in The Washington Post (Nov. 13, 2025) revealed that, as part of it’s crackdown on diversity, the Trump administration removed displays focused on contributions by Black American soldiers at an American World War II cemetery in the Netherlands.
Background on the Removed Displays
The two displays had been added at the Netherlands American Cemetery‘s visitor center in 2024 after relatives of service members criticized the site for ignoring the unique experiences of Black troops. One plaque told of a Black soldier who died while trying to save his comrade. The other highlighted how Black American service members were fighting for freedom overseas as well as for their civil rights at home.
Dutch Response and Calls for Restoration
Responding to Dutch citizens’ outrage over the removals, Dutch politicians asked U.S. officials to restore the information. The mayor of Eijsden-Margraten, where the cemetery is located, sent a letter to the American Battle Monuments Commission. He stated that they would appreciate it if the story of the Black liberators, including the 172 buried in the cemetery, be given permanent attention in the visitor center.
A Personal Reflection on World War II Service
I am the daughter of two World War II veterans. My father, originally a member of the Army-Air Force, later chose life as an Air Force officer. My mother was a WAC nurse. They met while stationed in Karachi, part of India at the time. Along with many of their fellow countrymen, they risked their lives to save the country they loved. One of the values they aspired to was the notion that all people deserve honor, respect and freedom.
Questions About Equality and Historical Memory
Should the sacrifices and patriotism of their fellow Black Americans count less than that of my Caucasian parents? As the widow of a Black WWII soldier put it, “The removal of the displays is disrespectful to the Black American soldiers who served and to the legacies their families cherish”.
The Importance of Preserving Real History
Should real history be so easily erased? Should not the contributions of all Americans, regardless of color, be celebrated? Black Americans helped liberate the Netherlands from the Nazis. What mind thinks that deleting records of the loyalty of these Black men and women is appropriate?
Submitted by Peggy Johnson