By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The American Battle Monuments Commission removed two displays from the American Cemetery in Margraten, Netherlands, that recognized Black troops’ contributions during World War II, a decision that has sparked controversy. The removal, which occurred after President Trump’s executive orders ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, has angered Dutch officials and others. One panel detailed the story of a Black soldier buried at the cemetery, while the other described the racial segregation policy in the U.S. military during the war. Emails obtained through a U.S. Freedom of Information Act request revealed that Trump’s DEI policies directly prompted the commission to remove the panels.
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U.S. removal of panels honoring Black soldiers at WWII cemetery in the Netherlands draws backlash. The news that the United States removed panels honoring Black soldiers at a World War II cemetery in the Netherlands has sparked a wave of anger and condemnation. The decision, seemingly supported by U.S. officials, is seen by many as a deeply insensitive act, one that dishonors the sacrifices of Black soldiers who fought for the very freedoms that America espoused. The stories these panels told, like that of George H. Pruitt, a young soldier who died trying to save a comrade, are testaments to courage and selflessness, values that should be celebrated universally, not erased.
The ambassador’s justification, suggesting that the panels promoted an agenda critical of America, is met with bewilderment. How can honoring the heroism of those who fought and died for their country be construed as an attack on that country? The notion that remembering the contributions of Black soldiers somehow criticizes America seems, to put it mildly, out of touch. It’s perceived as a thinly veiled excuse, and the only logical explanation is that racism is the underlying cause for such a decision. The irony is stark: these soldiers died fighting against fascism, only to be marginalized and erased by the very nation they served.
The backlash comes not just from individuals but also from a palpable sense of shame and disappointment. People are openly expressing their embarrassment at being American, seeing this act as a disgrace to the nation’s history and heritage. The timing is particularly poignant, as the world remembers the sacrifices made during the Second World War. The actions of the U.S. appear especially callous in this context, ignoring the contributions of those who fought and died for freedoms we now take for granted. Many wonder, what was the point of their sacrifice, if not to be recognized and honored?
Adding to the outrage, the removal of the panels is seen as part of a larger pattern. Some point out the removal of a web page honoring the most decorated American unit in WWII history, allegedly for being about “DEI.” The fear is that the erasure extends beyond physical memorials to the digital realm, creating a sanitized version of history that conveniently overlooks the contributions of marginalized groups. This isn’t an isolated incident; it’s a symptom of something deeply wrong with this current mindset.
The Dutch, with their own strong commitment to remembering the sacrifices of WWII, have responded with a sense of disbelief and a desire to rectify the situation. They have a long history of commemorating the contributions of allies, including the Canadians, with genuine reverence. The decision by the Americans seems to run counter to this spirit of remembrance and respect, and the Dutch feel a responsibility to preserve the memory of those who fought for their freedom, regardless of their skin color. The temporary re-installation of the panels by a Dutch TV show, and the support of a local farmer, demonstrates that the Dutch people are not willing to stand by and watch history be rewritten. However, the police later removed the panels on orders.
The controversy has also brought up questions about the motives behind the move. Is it simply a matter of political ideology, or is there a deeper issue at play? Some suggest that this is a deliberate effort to erase any acknowledgment of diversity and inclusion, fueled by a desire to return to a perceived “purer” version of America. It’s a way to exclude people through inclusion, as it is seemingly impossible to honor a minority without “excluding” the majority. The actions are seen as those of an unhinged administration, and it seems this is all by design.
The reaction from some corners of American society, which is characterized by frustration and a lack of surprise. People have come to expect such actions from this current administration. They see it as a reflection of the values it espouses and the direction in which it is taking the country. These actions feel like they are intentionally seeking ways to offend and degrade.
The situation underscores a broader concern about the direction of American society. The removal of the panels isn’t just a historical issue; it’s a reflection of deeper societal divisions and prejudices. Some see it as a symptom of a broader trend of erasing history and suppressing voices that challenge a narrow, often racist, vision of America. The U.S. is quickly becoming the country it fought against 80 years ago.