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A D-Day View from Monuments Man James Rorimer

A D-Day View from Monuments Man James Rorimer

A D-Day View from Monuments Man James Rorimer

While tens of thousands of Allied troops were flooding the beaches of Normandy on D-Day (June 6, 1944), the Monuments Men were...

Robert M. Edsel

Jun 6, 2014

Robert's Instagram

"They fought their way onto the European continent and other lands far from home, determined to defeat the greatest threat to freedom the world had ever known. And when the fighting ended and freedom prevailed, most came home, but many did not. Even during the fight, one nation struggled with the question of how to thank your liberators when so many were no longer alive to thank. That nation was the Netherlands." Continue reading the text of my remarks at RobertEdsel.com/blog.

Once again, I am grateful to the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the USA for inviting me to serve as the keynote speaker at their Freedom Concert.

Video clips courtesy of @nlintheusa

#freedom #foreverpromise #foreverpromiseproject #rememberus

"They fought their way onto the European continent and other lands far from home, determined to defeat the greatest threat to freedom the world had ever known. And when the fighting ended and freedom prevailed, most came home, but many did not. Even during the fight, one nation struggled with the question of how to thank your liberators when so many were no longer alive to thank. That nation was the Netherlands." Continue reading the text of my remarks at RobertEdsel.com/blog.

Once again, I am grateful to the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the USA for inviting me to serve as the keynote speaker at their Freedom Concert.

Video clips courtesy of @nlintheusa

#freedom #foreverpromise #foreverpromiseproject #rememberus

On Monday, I had the great honor to speak about freedom and the heartwarming and inspirational demonstration of gratitude by the Dutch in creating a unique grave adoption program, which continues to honor their American liberators 80 years later.

Thank you to the Embassy of the Netherlands in the United States (@nlintheusa), and especially to Ambassador Birgitta Tazelaar, for inviting me to serve as the keynote speaker at the Netherlands Freedom Concert. I am also grateful to our mutual friend, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States (@ukrainesembassyintheus), Oksana Markarova, for being among our special guests.

The event was a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds between nations that cherish freedom and honor those who defend it.

Second 📷 courtesy of @nlintheusa

On Monday, I had the great honor to speak about freedom and the heartwarming and inspirational demonstration of gratitude by the Dutch in creating a unique grave adoption program, which continues to honor their American liberators 80 years later.

Thank you to the Embassy of the Netherlands in the United States (@nlintheusa), and especially to Ambassador Birgitta Tazelaar, for inviting me to serve as the keynote speaker at the Netherlands Freedom Concert. I am also grateful to our mutual friend, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States (@ukrainesembassyintheus), Oksana Markarova, for being among our special guests.

The event was a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds between nations that cherish freedom and honor those who defend it.

Second 📷 courtesy of @nlintheusa

I can’t wait to be back at The National WWII Museum (@wwiimuseum ) in New Orleans for a presentation and book signing of ‘Remember Us’ on May 14! It is one of my favorite places and I can’t wait to share this story.

Tag a friend and meet me there!
#WWIIMuseum #BookTour #TourTuesday @shopwwii

I can’t wait to be back at The National WWII Museum (@wwiimuseum ) in New Orleans for a presentation and book signing of ‘Remember Us’ on May 14! It is one of my favorite places and I can’t wait to share this story.

Tag a friend and meet me there!
#WWIIMuseum #BookTour #TourTuesday @shopwwii

What a week! Remember Us continues to find its way into the hearts of readers. So many meaningful moments. Thank you to every journalist, bookseller, and reader helping bring this story to life. A quick look back at some highlights:

1️⃣ Interview with @fox7austin  2️⃣ Glowing review from @nypost  3️⃣ Powerful conversation on @cbsdetroit
4️⃣ A Remember Us cookie from the amazing team at @harperhorizon to celebrate launch week 5️⃣ Seeing Remember Us on bookstore shelves for the first time 6️⃣ Meeting Dion Graham, the amazing voice behind the audiobook 7️⃣ Spotlight on @wish8news about the Remember Us and the Forever Promise Project @monumentsmenandwomenfnd  8️⃣ Wonderful book signing at @bnfredericksburg (@barnesandnoble in Fredericksburg, VA)

🔗 Catch up on all the interviews—link in bio or on my website robertedsel.com/press-and-appearances

What a week! Remember Us continues to find its way into the hearts of readers. So many meaningful moments. Thank you to every journalist, bookseller, and reader helping bring this story to life. A quick look back at some highlights:

1️⃣ Interview with @fox7austin  2️⃣ Glowing review from @nypost  3️⃣ Powerful conversation on @cbsdetroit
4️⃣ A Remember Us cookie from the amazing team at @harperhorizon to celebrate launch week 5️⃣ Seeing Remember Us on bookstore shelves for the first time 6️⃣ Meeting Dion Graham, the amazing voice behind the audiobook 7️⃣ Spotlight on @wish8news about the Remember Us and the Forever Promise Project @monumentsmenandwomenfnd  8️⃣ Wonderful book signing at @bnfredericksburg (@barnesandnoble in Fredericksburg, VA)

🔗 Catch up on all the interviews—link in bio or on my website robertedsel.com/press-and-appearances

🎧Yesterday in NYC, I had the pleasure of meeting Dion Graham—the narrator of the Remember Us audiobook—in person for the first time. We’ve spoken over Zoom, exchanged notes, and shared a creative collaboration from afar, but nothing compares to sitting down for dinner together during launch week.

If you listen to the Remember Us audiobook, you’ll probably recognize Dion’s extraordinary voice. He’s one of the most celebrated narrators—often referred to as the GOAT—in the field today, and after hearing his work, it’s easy to understand why. His ability to breathe life into the words and emotions of the story is remarkable.

What made our collaboration even more special was Dion’s thoughtful suggestion that I narrate the epilogue myself. It wasn’t something I had originally planned, but taking that step became one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had as a writer.

We met near the World Trade Center, a place that holds personal meaning for me as I lived in New York City on 9/11. To meet Dion amid the soaring architecture of the Oculus and the solemn reflection of the 9/11 Memorial was unforgettable.

For audiobook listeners, Dion’s narration offers a powerful and heartfelt way to experience the story. I am so grateful to him, for lending his voice to Remember Us—and for encouraging me to use mine too.

🎧Yesterday in NYC, I had the pleasure of meeting Dion Graham—the narrator of the Remember Us audiobook—in person for the first time. We’ve spoken over Zoom, exchanged notes, and shared a creative collaboration from afar, but nothing compares to sitting down for dinner together during launch week.

If you listen to the Remember Us audiobook, you’ll probably recognize Dion’s extraordinary voice. He’s one of the most celebrated narrators—often referred to as the GOAT—in the field today, and after hearing his work, it’s easy to understand why. His ability to breathe life into the words and emotions of the story is remarkable.

What made our collaboration even more special was Dion’s thoughtful suggestion that I narrate the epilogue myself. It wasn’t something I had originally planned, but taking that step became one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had as a writer.

We met near the World Trade Center, a place that holds personal meaning for me as I lived in New York City on 9/11. To meet Dion amid the soaring architecture of the Oculus and the solemn reflection of the 9/11 Memorial was unforgettable.

For audiobook listeners, Dion’s narration offers a powerful and heartfelt way to experience the story. I am so grateful to him, for lending his voice to Remember Us—and for encouraging me to use mine too.

📖✈️ Will we see you next week on the ‘Remember Us’ Book Tour? ✈️📖

Join me for conversations and book signings in these incredible cities, and tag a friend who wants to join us!

📍Tuesday, May 6 – Kansas City, MO
🗨️Conversation & Book Signing Hosted by @rainydaybooks 📚
🗺️Unity Temple on Plaza - 707 W 47th St, Kansas City, MO 64112

📍 Friday, May 9 – Gettysburg, PA
🗨️Conversation & Book Signing Hosted by @gettysburgfilmfestival
🗺️Gettysburg College’s Majestic Theater, 25 Carlisle Street

I hope to see you! Visit my website for full details: www.robertedsel.com/events

#RememberUs #BookTour #WWII #TourTuesday

📖✈️ Will we see you next week on the ‘Remember Us’ Book Tour? ✈️📖

Join me for conversations and book signings in these incredible cities, and tag a friend who wants to join us!

📍Tuesday, May 6 – Kansas City, MO
🗨️Conversation & Book Signing Hosted by @rainydaybooks 📚
🗺️Unity Temple on Plaza - 707 W 47th St, Kansas City, MO 64112

📍 Friday, May 9 – Gettysburg, PA
🗨️Conversation & Book Signing Hosted by @gettysburgfilmfestival
🗺️Gettysburg College’s Majestic Theater, 25 Carlisle Street

I hope to see you! Visit my website for full details: www.robertedsel.com/events

#RememberUs #BookTour #WWII #TourTuesday

What a thrill it is to walk into a bookstore and see ‘Remember Us’ on the shelves, and to talk to customers about this story. (“You were here for a cookbook? Great, let me tell you about a group of Dutch civilians who have been honoring American soldiers for 80 years…”)

It never gets old to see a book go from years of research and writing to sitting proudly on display. And connecting with readers in person—whether they’re history buffs or just curious—is truly the best part.

If you see ‘Remember Us’ in your local store, snap a photo and tag me. I would love to get a glimpse of your local bookstore!

What a thrill it is to walk into a bookstore and see ‘Remember Us’ on the shelves, and to talk to customers about this story. (“You were here for a cookbook? Great, let me tell you about a group of Dutch civilians who have been honoring American soldiers for 80 years…”)

It never gets old to see a book go from years of research and writing to sitting proudly on display. And connecting with readers in person—whether they’re history buffs or just curious—is truly the best part.

If you see ‘Remember Us’ in your local store, snap a photo and tag me. I would love to get a glimpse of your local bookstore!

Happy Pub Day to Remember Us!

#HappyAuthor

Happy Pub Day to Remember Us!

#HappyAuthor

⏱️The countdown is on!

Tomorrow is the big day — ‘Remember Us’ will officially be available.

This morning I spent time in the studio connecting with TV stations across the country, sharing the powerful stories behind ‘Remember Us’ and the remarkable people who inspired it.

I hope I made it onto a station near your town! ‘Remember Us’ is available everywhere starting tomorrow. I can’t wait for you to read the book and meet these incredible heroes yourself.

#RememberUs #CountdownToPubDay #WWII #NewBook

⏱️The countdown is on!

Tomorrow is the big day — ‘Remember Us’ will officially be available.

This morning I spent time in the studio connecting with TV stations across the country, sharing the powerful stories behind ‘Remember Us’ and the remarkable people who inspired it.

I hope I made it onto a station near your town! ‘Remember Us’ is available everywhere starting tomorrow. I can’t wait for you to read the book and meet these incredible heroes yourself.

#RememberUs #CountdownToPubDay #WWII #NewBook

📚 It’s pub week for ‘Remember Us’ and I’m in NYC for media. What a warm welcome to the Big Apple to see this full page story in the New York Post (@nypost)!

🔗 Read the full story: link in bio

#RememberUs #bookreview #nyc

📚 It’s pub week for ‘Remember Us’ and I’m in NYC for media. What a warm welcome to the Big Apple to see this full page story in the New York Post (@nypost)!

🔗 Read the full story: link in bio

#RememberUs #bookreview #nyc

Yesterday, at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Laurel, MS, I had the honor of meeting James Bass, a crew member of USS Harding, a destroyer heavily damaged off the coast of Okinawa by Japanese kamikaze planes. James survived, but twenty-two fellow crew members were killed. Somewhere in the general vicinity was a 19 year old Marine sergeant from the Dustbowl of Oklahoma—my father, Ray Edsel.

Meeting James, hearing his story, and thinking about my dad brought me to tears. I played the tennis circuit when I was 19. These men went to war.

#grateful #WWII #greatestgeneration #heroes

Yesterday, at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Laurel, MS, I had the honor of meeting James Bass, a crew member of USS Harding, a destroyer heavily damaged off the coast of Okinawa by Japanese kamikaze planes. James survived, but twenty-two fellow crew members were killed. Somewhere in the general vicinity was a 19 year old Marine sergeant from the Dustbowl of Oklahoma—my father, Ray Edsel.

Meeting James, hearing his story, and thinking about my dad brought me to tears. I played the tennis circuit when I was 19. These men went to war.

#grateful #WWII #greatestgeneration #heroes

On the road for the Remember Us book tour — week one highlights!

1️⃣ Austin, TX: Family and friends gathering at Austin Country Club (@austincountryclubatx)
2️⃣ Dallas, TX: A special moment with former U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison at the event hosted by World Affairs Council DFW (@dfwworld)
3️⃣ Dallas, TX: Hanging out with my little buddy George
4️⃣ Marfa, TX: Speaking at Texas Lyceum (@texaslyceum) conference
5️⃣ Birmingham, AL: At The Alabama Booksmith (@alabamabooksmith) with Jake Reiss
6️⃣ Savannah, GA: Live on set with WTOC11 (@wtoc11) for Morning Break
7️⃣ Jackson, MS: Signing 500 books at Lemuria Books (@lemuriabooks)
8️⃣ Laurel, MS: Speaking & book signing at the Veterans Memorial Museum (@veteransmuseumlaurel)

Grateful for the warm welcomes and unforgettable memories this first week! 📚✈️
#RememberUs #BookTour #OnTheRoad

On the road for the Remember Us book tour — week one highlights!

1️⃣ Austin, TX: Family and friends gathering at Austin Country Club (@austincountryclubatx)
2️⃣ Dallas, TX: A special moment with former U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison at the event hosted by World Affairs Council DFW (@dfwworld)
3️⃣ Dallas, TX: Hanging out with my little buddy George
4️⃣ Marfa, TX: Speaking at Texas Lyceum (@texaslyceum) conference
5️⃣ Birmingham, AL: At The Alabama Booksmith (@alabamabooksmith) with Jake Reiss
6️⃣ Savannah, GA: Live on set with WTOC11 (@wtoc11) for Morning Break
7️⃣ Jackson, MS: Signing 500 books at Lemuria Books (@lemuriabooks)
8️⃣ Laurel, MS: Speaking & book signing at the Veterans Memorial Museum (@veteransmuseumlaurel)

Grateful for the warm welcomes and unforgettable memories this first week! 📚✈️
#RememberUs #BookTour #OnTheRoad

📚There’s just something about independent bookstores!

Spent the morning at Lemuria Bookstore (@lemuriabooks) in Jackson, MS signing 500 copies of Remember Us. Grateful for the warm Southern welcome and the support from their wonderful team.

Now I’m headed to the Veterans Memorial Museum in Laurel (@veterans.memorial.museum) — the hometown of John Low, one of the remarkable soldiers whose story is featured in the book.

Grateful for days like this, and for the opportunity to share these stories!

#happyauthor #rememberus

📚There’s just something about independent bookstores!

Spent the morning at Lemuria Bookstore (@lemuriabooks) in Jackson, MS signing 500 copies of Remember Us. Grateful for the warm Southern welcome and the support from their wonderful team.

Now I’m headed to the Veterans Memorial Museum in Laurel (@veterans.memorial.museum) — the hometown of John Low, one of the remarkable soldiers whose story is featured in the book.

Grateful for days like this, and for the opportunity to share these stories!

#happyauthor #rememberus

📚Save the date and join me for a book signing of ‘Remember Us’ at Barnes & Noble in Fredericksburg, VA next Saturday, May 3 @ 1pm!

I’ll be there to share stories, sign copies, and connect with readers. It’s always a special experience to meet people who are passionate about history.

I’d love to see you there and hear your thoughts on the book! ✨ #BookSigning #AuthorEvent #TourTuesday

📚Save the date and join me for a book signing of ‘Remember Us’ at Barnes & Noble in Fredericksburg, VA next Saturday, May 3 @ 1pm!

I’ll be there to share stories, sign copies, and connect with readers. It’s always a special experience to meet people who are passionate about history.

I’d love to see you there and hear your thoughts on the book! ✨ #BookSigning #AuthorEvent #TourTuesday

🔔I am deeply honored to have been invited by the Embassy of the Netherlands in the United States to be the keynote speaker for the Freedom Concert at the Netherlands Carillon in Washington, DC on May 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM!

This annual event celebrates the enduring friendship between the United States and the Netherlands, commemorating the Netherlands’ Liberation Day. The Netherlands Carillon, a 127-foot-tall musical monument with 53 bells, stands as a symbol of freedom and the strong bond between our nations. This year marks 80 years since the restoration of Dutch freedom from occupation during World War II.

I look forward to joining esteemed guests and performers in reflecting on the profound meaning of freedom. If you are in the DC area, I invite you to join us for this special occasion on May 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM! Admission is free, but registration is required!

👉 Register here: https://www.robertedsel.com/post/freedom-concert

🔔I am deeply honored to have been invited by the Embassy of the Netherlands in the United States to be the keynote speaker for the Freedom Concert at the Netherlands Carillon in Washington, DC on May 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM!

This annual event celebrates the enduring friendship between the United States and the Netherlands, commemorating the Netherlands’ Liberation Day. The Netherlands Carillon, a 127-foot-tall musical monument with 53 bells, stands as a symbol of freedom and the strong bond between our nations. This year marks 80 years since the restoration of Dutch freedom from occupation during World War II.

I look forward to joining esteemed guests and performers in reflecting on the profound meaning of freedom. If you are in the DC area, I invite you to join us for this special occasion on May 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM! Admission is free, but registration is required!

👉 Register here: https://www.robertedsel.com/post/freedom-concert

While visiting the George W. Bush Presidential Center (@thebushcenter) for the Strategerist podcast, I had the chance to explore the museum.

One of the most meaningful moments was seeing the photo of me alongside four Monuments Men from the ceremony when the Monuments Men and Women Foundation (@monumentsmenandwomenfnd) received the National Humanities Medal from President George W. Bush (@georgewbush). It was an honor of a lifetime to share the stage with the President and these WWII heroes.

And yes, sitting in the “Oval Office” replica was pretty cool too. Definitely worth visiting if you are in the area!
#grateful

While visiting the George W. Bush Presidential Center (@thebushcenter) for the Strategerist podcast, I had the chance to explore the museum.

One of the most meaningful moments was seeing the photo of me alongside four Monuments Men from the ceremony when the Monuments Men and Women Foundation (@monumentsmenandwomenfnd) received the National Humanities Medal from President George W. Bush (@georgewbush). It was an honor of a lifetime to share the stage with the President and these WWII heroes.

And yes, sitting in the “Oval Office” replica was pretty cool too. Definitely worth visiting if you are in the area!
#grateful

Bonnie Carroll has dedicated her life to supporting families of the fallen, and her words about ‘Remember Us’ truly humble me: “This is more than a history—it is a tribute.” I’m honored by her support and eager to share this story - a tribute to all who served, sacrificed, and remembered.

📖 Pre-order ‘Remember Us’ today! https://a.co/d/0rgeHKb #RememberUs #WWII #ThankfulThursday

Bonnie Carroll has dedicated her life to supporting families of the fallen, and her words about ‘Remember Us’ truly humble me: “This is more than a history—it is a tribute.” I’m honored by her support and eager to share this story - a tribute to all who served, sacrificed, and remembered.

📖 Pre-order ‘Remember Us’ today! https://a.co/d/0rgeHKb #RememberUs #WWII #ThankfulThursday

Earlier this week, I joined host Andrew Kaufmann and Jason Galui, Director of Veterans and Military Families at the Bush Institute, for a powerful conversation on The Strategerist podcast, hosted by the George W. Bush Presidential Center. (@thebushcenter).

We covered some meaningful ground — from the stories behind ‘Remember Us,’ to the importance of honoring our soldiers, and of course, President George W. Bush (@georgewbush)’s historic visit to the Netherlands American Cemetery — the only sitting U.S. President to have ever done so. It was fun to tape this segment with a live audience, and also sign their copies of ‘Remember Us!’

🎧 The episode drops April 22 — available on all podcast platforms and at bushcenter.org/podcast/the-strategerist.

Earlier this week, I joined host Andrew Kaufmann and Jason Galui, Director of Veterans and Military Families at the Bush Institute, for a powerful conversation on The Strategerist podcast, hosted by the George W. Bush Presidential Center. (@thebushcenter).

We covered some meaningful ground — from the stories behind ‘Remember Us,’ to the importance of honoring our soldiers, and of course, President George W. Bush (@georgewbush)’s historic visit to the Netherlands American Cemetery — the only sitting U.S. President to have ever done so. It was fun to tape this segment with a live audience, and also sign their copies of ‘Remember Us!’

🎧 The episode drops April 22 — available on all podcast platforms and at bushcenter.org/podcast/the-strategerist.

🇺🇸🇳🇱 Let’s fulfill the Forever Promise and ensure these heroes are never forgotten.
.
Nearly 80 years ago, a promise was made in the Netherlands—by ordinary citizens who adopted the graves of American soldiers who died liberating their homeland during World War II. That promise was simple but profound: to remember and care for these fallen heroes as if they were their own.
.
Since then, thousands of Dutch families have honored that promise. But only a small percentage have ever been able to connect with the American families of the soldiers they so lovingly honor.
.
Today, with the launch of the Forever Promise Project, we have the opportunity to change that. In partnership with our dear friends at the Stichting Adoptie Graven Amerikaanse Begraafplaats Margraten (Foundation for Adopting Graves American Cemetery Margraten), the Monuments Men and Women Foundation (@monumentsmenandwomenfnd) I is proud to launch this initiative—designed to connect next of kin in the U.S. with the Dutch adopters who have cared for their loved one’s grave for decades.
.
This is a deeply personal mission for me. My new book, #RememberUs, shares the human stories behind this extraordinary tradition. But with the Forever Promise Project, we’re not just telling the story—we’re inviting Americans to be part of it.
.
It is especially fitting that we launch the Forever Promise Project today, on what would have been Frieda van Schaïk’s 100th birthday. During our first meeting, Frieda asked me a simple question: “Have you heard of the Margraten Grave Adoption program?” That single sentence opened my eyes to a remarkable tradition—one that has lasted generations—and it has led us here, to the launch of this important initiative.
.
If you have a family member buried at Margraten, or simply want to help us spread the word, please visit foreverpromise.org.

🇺🇸🇳🇱 Let’s fulfill the Forever Promise and ensure these heroes are never forgotten.
.
Nearly 80 years ago, a promise was made in the Netherlands—by ordinary citizens who adopted the graves of American soldiers who died liberating their homeland during World War II. That promise was simple but profound: to remember and care for these fallen heroes as if they were their own.
.
Since then, thousands of Dutch families have honored that promise. But only a small percentage have ever been able to connect with the American families of the soldiers they so lovingly honor.
.
Today, with the launch of the Forever Promise Project, we have the opportunity to change that. In partnership with our dear friends at the Stichting Adoptie Graven Amerikaanse Begraafplaats Margraten (Foundation for Adopting Graves American Cemetery Margraten), the Monuments Men and Women Foundation (@monumentsmenandwomenfnd) I is proud to launch this initiative—designed to connect next of kin in the U.S. with the Dutch adopters who have cared for their loved one’s grave for decades.
.
This is a deeply personal mission for me. My new book, #RememberUs, shares the human stories behind this extraordinary tradition. But with the Forever Promise Project, we’re not just telling the story—we’re inviting Americans to be part of it.
.
It is especially fitting that we launch the Forever Promise Project today, on what would have been Frieda van Schaïk’s 100th birthday. During our first meeting, Frieda asked me a simple question: “Have you heard of the Margraten Grave Adoption program?” That single sentence opened my eyes to a remarkable tradition—one that has lasted generations—and it has led us here, to the launch of this important initiative.
.
If you have a family member buried at Margraten, or simply want to help us spread the word, please visit foreverpromise.org.

📖✈️ The ‘Remember Us’ Book Tour Starts in Full Force Next Week! ✈️📖

Join me for conversations and book signings in these incredible cities. Where will we see you? Tag a friend who wants to join us there!

📍 Monday, April 21 – Dallas, TX
📍 Tuesday, April 22 – Birmingham, AL
📍 Wednesday, April 23 – Savannah, GA
📍 Saturday, April 26 – Jackson & Laurel, MS

I can’t wait to share the powerful true stories from ‘Remember Us’ with you! Check out my website for full details about these events, as well as listings for all the tour stops: https://www.robertedsel.com/events (direct link in bio)

#RememberUs #BookTour #WWII #TourTuesda

📖✈️ The ‘Remember Us’ Book Tour Starts in Full Force Next Week! ✈️📖

Join me for conversations and book signings in these incredible cities. Where will we see you? Tag a friend who wants to join us there!

📍 Monday, April 21 – Dallas, TX
📍 Tuesday, April 22 – Birmingham, AL
📍 Wednesday, April 23 – Savannah, GA
📍 Saturday, April 26 – Jackson & Laurel, MS

I can’t wait to share the powerful true stories from ‘Remember Us’ with you! Check out my website for full details about these events, as well as listings for all the tour stops: https://www.robertedsel.com/events (direct link in bio)

#RememberUs #BookTour #WWII #TourTuesda

It was a fantastic weekend in Marfa, Texas, where I had the honor of speaking at the The Texas Lyceum (@texaslyceum) Q2 Conference — Becoming Texas: The Cultural Crossroads of Texas Heritage. The conference brought together leaders from across Texas to explore the past that continues to shape our present and future.

This was the first public presentation for my new book, ‘Remember Us,’ and I couldn’t have asked for a more engaged, thoughtful audience. Sharing the story of the American soldiers who liberated the Netherlands during WWII, and the incredible Dutch civilians who have never forgotten them, moved the room deeply — and to my surprise and great gratitude, it ended with a standing ovation. A moment I won’t forget!

Special thanks to Texas Lyceum President Crayton Webb; Q2 Meeting Chairs Wendie Cook, Ryan Lilley, and Amber Burton; and Jennifer Chandler for the invitation and making this event possible.

Thank you also to the sponsors who supported this conference:
✨ Abell-Hanger Foundation
✨ Diamondback Energy (@diamondbackenergy)
✨ Permian Basin Area Foundation (@permianbasinareafoundation)
✨ Frost Bank (@frostbank)

The Hotel Saint George (@marfasaintgeorge ) was a beautiful venue, and City of Marfa provided the perfect backdrop.

This was just the first of many stops over the next two months for the ‘Remember Us’ book tour. I hope to see you on the road!

#RememberUs #BookTour

It was a fantastic weekend in Marfa, Texas, where I had the honor of speaking at the The Texas Lyceum (@texaslyceum) Q2 Conference — Becoming Texas: The Cultural Crossroads of Texas Heritage. The conference brought together leaders from across Texas to explore the past that continues to shape our present and future.

This was the first public presentation for my new book, ‘Remember Us,’ and I couldn’t have asked for a more engaged, thoughtful audience. Sharing the story of the American soldiers who liberated the Netherlands during WWII, and the incredible Dutch civilians who have never forgotten them, moved the room deeply — and to my surprise and great gratitude, it ended with a standing ovation. A moment I won’t forget!

Special thanks to Texas Lyceum President Crayton Webb; Q2 Meeting Chairs Wendie Cook, Ryan Lilley, and Amber Burton; and Jennifer Chandler for the invitation and making this event possible.

Thank you also to the sponsors who supported this conference:
✨ Abell-Hanger Foundation
✨ Diamondback Energy (@diamondbackenergy)
✨ Permian Basin Area Foundation (@permianbasinareafoundation)
✨ Frost Bank (@frostbank)

The Hotel Saint George (@marfasaintgeorge ) was a beautiful venue, and City of Marfa provided the perfect backdrop.

This was just the first of many stops over the next two months for the ‘Remember Us’ book tour. I hope to see you on the road!

#RememberUs #BookTour

🚐✈️ The REMEMBER US Book Tour is about to begin! Where will I see you?

From my hometown of Dallas, Austin to Atlanta, Gettysburg to Detroit—and even a virtual event—find a stop near you and tag a friend to meet us there!

📍 Full tour dates are listed in the graphic
📘 Book release: April 29
📚 Publisher: Harper Horizon (@harperhorizon)
🔗 Full details at robertedsel.com/events (direct link in bio)

#RememberUs #BookTour #WWII #HarperHorizon

🚐✈️ The REMEMBER US Book Tour is about to begin! Where will I see you?

From my hometown of Dallas, Austin to Atlanta, Gettysburg to Detroit—and even a virtual event—find a stop near you and tag a friend to meet us there!

📍 Full tour dates are listed in the graphic
📘 Book release: April 29
📚 Publisher: Harper Horizon (@harperhorizon)
🔗 Full details at robertedsel.com/events (direct link in bio)

#RememberUs #BookTour #WWII #HarperHorizon

#onthisday 80 years ago today, Generals Eisenhower, Patton, and Bradley traveled into Germany—amid ongoing fighting—to visit the Merkers salt mine, where billions of dollars in gold bullion and currency from the German Reichsbank were hidden, along with thousands of works of art from Berlin’s museums, guarded by the Monuments Men.

From there, they went to Ohrdruf—the first concentration camp liberated by American forces. The horrific sight of bodies and smoldering remains, a desperate attempt by Nazis to cover up their crimes, sickened Eisenhower and his commanders.

That evening, came the shocking news that the Commander-in-Chief, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, had died earlier that day.
April 12, 1945—a momentous day in history!

#MonumentsMen #WWII #Eisenhower

📷: US National Archives

#onthisday 80 years ago today, Generals Eisenhower, Patton, and Bradley traveled into Germany—amid ongoing fighting—to visit the Merkers salt mine, where billions of dollars in gold bullion and currency from the German Reichsbank were hidden, along with thousands of works of art from Berlin’s museums, guarded by the Monuments Men.

From there, they went to Ohrdruf—the first concentration camp liberated by American forces. The horrific sight of bodies and smoldering remains, a desperate attempt by Nazis to cover up their crimes, sickened Eisenhower and his commanders.

That evening, came the shocking news that the Commander-in-Chief, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, had died earlier that day.
April 12, 1945—a momentous day in history!

#MonumentsMen #WWII #Eisenhower

📷: US National Archives

The early reviews for ‘Remember Us’ are rolling in! I am grateful for the praise from Publishers Weekly (@publisherswkly), calling the book “an intimate, moving look at the war that extracts deep meaning from the carnage and loss.”

It’s been a privilege to bring this story to life, and I’m looking forward to finally sharing it with readers. ‘Remember Us’ will be released on April 29. I can’t believe we are just a few weeks away!

The early reviews for ‘Remember Us’ are rolling in! I am grateful for the praise from Publishers Weekly (@publisherswkly), calling the book “an intimate, moving look at the war that extracts deep meaning from the carnage and loss.”

It’s been a privilege to bring this story to life, and I’m looking forward to finally sharing it with readers. ‘Remember Us’ will be released on April 29. I can’t believe we are just a few weeks away!

📚As we count down to the release of ‘Remember Us’—in both English and Dutch—I had the privilege of returning to the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten, where so much of this story begins—and continues.

This trip was not only about media ahead of the book’s release in the Netherlands, but also about reconnecting. One of the highlights of my trip was seeing the daughters of Frieda van Schaïk again. It was Frieda’s letter written in 1945 seeking the address for Walter Huchthausen’s mother that led me to this story.

I was also reunited with the passionate team behind the Stichting Adoptie Graven Amerikaanse Begraafplaats Margraten (@adoptiegravenmargraten ) —men who have become dear friends over the years since my research began! I look forward to sharing more with you soon about a collaboration with this organization.

Most importantly, I was able to visit Walter Huchthausen on the 80th anniversary of his death, along with all the others buried at the Netherlands American Cemetery, whom I now think of as family. To stand there in quiet reflection, surrounded by thousands of names and stories, was a humbling reminder of what this book is truly about: remembrance, gratitude, and the bonds that endure.

‘Remember Us’ comes out April 29. I can’t wait to share it with you!

📚As we count down to the release of ‘Remember Us’—in both English and Dutch—I had the privilege of returning to the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten, where so much of this story begins—and continues.

This trip was not only about media ahead of the book’s release in the Netherlands, but also about reconnecting. One of the highlights of my trip was seeing the daughters of Frieda van Schaïk again. It was Frieda’s letter written in 1945 seeking the address for Walter Huchthausen’s mother that led me to this story.

I was also reunited with the passionate team behind the Stichting Adoptie Graven Amerikaanse Begraafplaats Margraten (@adoptiegravenmargraten ) —men who have become dear friends over the years since my research began! I look forward to sharing more with you soon about a collaboration with this organization.

Most importantly, I was able to visit Walter Huchthausen on the 80th anniversary of his death, along with all the others buried at the Netherlands American Cemetery, whom I now think of as family. To stand there in quiet reflection, surrounded by thousands of names and stories, was a humbling reminder of what this book is truly about: remembrance, gratitude, and the bonds that endure.

‘Remember Us’ comes out April 29. I can’t wait to share it with you!

In the end, we all hope to be remembered—somehow, someway, by somebody. #RememberUs

📚 Remember Us — Coming April 29!

Pre-order now wherever books are sold ✨

Book tour stops announced — don’t miss it! Link in bio #RememberUsBook #BookTour2025

In the end, we all hope to be remembered—somehow, someway, by somebody. #RememberUs

📚 Remember Us — Coming April 29!

Pre-order now wherever books are sold ✨

Book tour stops announced — don’t miss it! Link in bio #RememberUsBook #BookTour2025

📚In April 2013, I was preparing for the launch of ‘Saving Italy.’ Twelve years later, I’m holding finished copies of ‘Remember Us’ for the first time—and it’s hard to put into words what that feels like.

From ‘Rescuing Da Vinci’ to ‘The Monuments Men,’ ‘Saving Italy,’ ‘The Greatest Treasure Hunt in History,’ and now ‘Remember Us’—seeing the full set on my shelf is incredibly rewarding. Each one represents a different journey. Each experience writing them was unique and meaningful in its own way.

‘Remember Us’ holds a special place in my heart. It’s a deeply personal story, and I can’t wait to share it! Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey with me!

#RememberUs #MonumentsMen #SavingItaly #Gratitude

📚In April 2013, I was preparing for the launch of ‘Saving Italy.’ Twelve years later, I’m holding finished copies of ‘Remember Us’ for the first time—and it’s hard to put into words what that feels like.

From ‘Rescuing Da Vinci’ to ‘The Monuments Men,’ ‘Saving Italy,’ ‘The Greatest Treasure Hunt in History,’ and now ‘Remember Us’—seeing the full set on my shelf is incredibly rewarding. Each one represents a different journey. Each experience writing them was unique and meaningful in its own way.

‘Remember Us’ holds a special place in my heart. It’s a deeply personal story, and I can’t wait to share it! Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey with me!

#RememberUs #MonumentsMen #SavingItaly #Gratitude

This week marks 80 years since Monuments Man Walter “Hutch” Huchthausen was killed in action on April 2, 1945. When his fellow Monuments Man Harry Ettlinger and I visited his grave at the Netherlands American Cemetery in 2012, I had no idea that moment would set me on a path leading to this very day—just weeks from the launch of ‘Remember Us.’

In a way, it was Hutch who led me to this story. More specifically, it was a letter—from a young Dutch woman in the fall of 1945—seeking the address of Walter’s mother.

“He is buried at the large U.S. Military Cemetery in Margraten, Holland,” she wrote. “A place 6 miles from where I live. I am taking care of his grave.”

That single sentence opened my eyes to a remarkable tradition—one that has lasted generations—and a much larger story unfolded.

I can’t wait to introduce you to the people and stories at the heart of ‘Remember Us.’ But today, we honor Walter Huchthausen, his sacrifice, and the people who have never forgotten him, including this author.
#RememberUs

This week marks 80 years since Monuments Man Walter “Hutch” Huchthausen was killed in action on April 2, 1945. When his fellow Monuments Man Harry Ettlinger and I visited his grave at the Netherlands American Cemetery in 2012, I had no idea that moment would set me on a path leading to this very day—just weeks from the launch of ‘Remember Us.’

In a way, it was Hutch who led me to this story. More specifically, it was a letter—from a young Dutch woman in the fall of 1945—seeking the address of Walter’s mother.

“He is buried at the large U.S. Military Cemetery in Margraten, Holland,” she wrote. “A place 6 miles from where I live. I am taking care of his grave.”

That single sentence opened my eyes to a remarkable tradition—one that has lasted generations—and a much larger story unfolded.

I can’t wait to introduce you to the people and stories at the heart of ‘Remember Us.’ But today, we honor Walter Huchthausen, his sacrifice, and the people who have never forgotten him, including this author.
#RememberUs

Donald L. Miller, bestselling author of ‘Masters of the Air,’ is one of the finest historians of our time, so I am honored by his praise for ‘Remember Us’—calling it “spellbinding.” I’ve always believed history should be felt, not just read, and I hope this book brings these stories to life in a way that stays with you.

📖 Pre-order ‘Remember Us’ today! https://a.co/d/0rgeHKb #RememberUs #WWII #ThankfulThursday

Donald L. Miller, bestselling author of ‘Masters of the Air,’ is one of the finest historians of our time, so I am honored by his praise for ‘Remember Us’—calling it “spellbinding.” I’ve always believed history should be felt, not just read, and I hope this book brings these stories to life in a way that stays with you.

📖 Pre-order ‘Remember Us’ today! https://a.co/d/0rgeHKb #RememberUs #WWII #ThankfulThursday

📍One of the early stops on the ‘Remember Us’ tour will be at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Laurel, MS on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 2 PM.

This free event is particularly meaningful as ‘Remember Us’ features a native son of Laurel, John L. Low, Jr., as one of its major characters. If you are in the area, I’d love to share his powerful story with you!

Lemuria Bookstore will have books available for purchase onsite if you’d like a signed copy! #RememberUs #AuthorLife #Books #WWII #TourTuesday

📍One of the early stops on the ‘Remember Us’ tour will be at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Laurel, MS on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 2 PM.

This free event is particularly meaningful as ‘Remember Us’ features a native son of Laurel, John L. Low, Jr., as one of its major characters. If you are in the area, I’d love to share his powerful story with you!

Lemuria Bookstore will have books available for purchase onsite if you’d like a signed copy! #RememberUs #AuthorLife #Books #WWII #TourTuesday

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