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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Fox News host Jesse Watters shared a conversation he allegedly had with Donald Trump at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest where Trump claimed he was constructing the new White House ballroom as a “monument” to himself. The ballroom’s projected cost is now $400 million and is expected to be completed by the summer of 2028. Trump has stated the space is needed for indoor events. A judge rejected a request to halt construction, allowing the project to continue while further review is considered.
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In the winter of 1944, African American soldiers like 1st Sgt. Jefferson Wiggins were tasked with burying fallen US service members in the Netherlands, a grueling and discriminatory duty during World War II. Recently, the American Battle Monuments Commission removed a display at the Margraten cemetery that honored these contributions and highlighted the discrimination they faced, sparking controversy. The agency stated the panel’s removal was due to an internal review, while the display’s removal has prompted calls for its reinstallation by local Dutch officials and the late 1st Lt. Wiggins’ widow. The panel removal has drawn scrutiny regarding the ABMC’s mission and the importance of remembering the sacrifices of Black soldiers who fought during the war.
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John Q. Hosedrinker