The Heart of Remember Us: The Netherlands American Cemetery

As we count down the days to the release of Remember Us to be published in both English and Dutch, I had the privilege of visiting the Netherlands American Cemetery, where so much of this story begins—and continues. Spring has arrived in Margraten, and the cherry blossoms lining the Court of Honor were in full bloom.

This trip was not only about media ahead of the book’s release in the Netherlands, but also about reconnecting with individuals whose devotion to memory and sacrifice is unmatched.

I was reunited with the passionate team behind the Foundation for Adopting Graves American Cemetery Margraten—men who have become dear friends over the years since my research began. Their tireless work in preserving the stories of fallen American soldiers and pairing them with Dutch adopters speaks to the very heart of this book. It’s not just history they’re preserving—it’s humanity. I look forward to sharing more with you soon about a collaboration with this organization.

With Esther and Martha Gumn

One of the highlights of my trip was seeing the daughters of Frieda van Schaïk again. They have carried forward their mother’s legacy of remembrance with love, pride, and unwavering dedication. Their family’s story is one of many featured in Remember Us, and being with them again reminded me just how deeply personal and powerful these connections are. It was Frieda's letter written in 1945 seeking the address for Walter Huchthausen's mother that led me to this story.

It was incredibly moving to see how this shared history continues to resonate across generations and across oceans. Everyone I met expressed excitement that this story—so long in the shadows—is finally being told.

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.