RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- Airmen from U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa joined Allied militaries and host nation communities to honor fallen U.S. service members May 24-26.
In addition to performances and tributes from the USAFE-AFAFRICA Band, U.S. Airmen participated in troop formations, color guard and firing details, and aircraft flyovers at 17 cemeteries across France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg and Italy.
“On Memorial Day, we honor the great sacrifices of our U.S. service members to protect our freedom,” said Dr. Robyn Rodriguez, USAFE-AFAFRICA command historian. “As we reflect on the 80th anniversary of Victory-in-Europe Day on 8 May, it is important to note that it is not only a day of celebration but also one of somber reflection and mourning for those who did not live to see the war’s end. The Army Air Forces paid a particularly heavy price with over 35,000 combat deaths in the European and Mediterranean theaters.”
Throughout the United States’ history, more than 1.3 million Americans have given their lives in military service—many of whom were laid to rest in cemeteries across Europe and North Africa.
“Peace requires strength, unity demands commitment, and freedom always has its cost,” said U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Troy D. Havener, Air National Guard assistant to the commander, USAFE-AFAFRICA. “May we live in a way that honors their sacrifice — with courage in our decisions, compassion in our actions, and conviction in our values.”
The Memorial Day ceremonies with Allies across Europe not only honor the sacrifices of U.S. service members but also reaffirm the strength of the enduring U.S. commitment to transatlantic security and cooperation.
For more information, please contact the USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs office at usafepao.pao@us.af.mil.