This Saturday’s commemorative event at the American Military Cemetery in Sandweiler saw a smaller turnout than in previous years. Still, the atmosphere remained solemn and respectful, and the messages shared were as powerful as ever.
Standing before the graves of over 5,000 fallen American soldiers who gave their lives to free Luxembourg and Europe from German occupation, Defence Minister Yuriko Backes expressed deep gratitude, stating that Luxembourg remains “eternally grateful” for their sacrifice.
That was the overriding message of the day, one echoed by Michael Konstantino, Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Luxembourg, who delivered a passionate tribute to the enduring US-Luxembourg alliance. Reflecting on the lessons of the past, Konstantino warned of the dangers of passivity in the face of rising authoritarianism.
He noted that in the 1930s, many believed they could avoid war by staying on the sidelines and doing nothing. But that inaction, combined with a lack of military strength, led to the rise of regimes that stood in direct opposition to democratic ideals, according to Konstantino. Today, he said, we understand that hope alone is not enough.
This message, he added, has long been understood in Europe, and certainly in Luxembourg.
Honouring those who died for freedom, Konstantino reaffirmed the importance of solidarity among NATO members, stressing the need for countries like Luxembourg to invest more in their own defence and contribute alongside their allies.
Defence Minister Backes acknowledged this reality, underlining that although current Luxembourgish laws prohibit weapons production, discussions are underway about future possibilities. While the government continues to focus on research and development, the idea of local weapons manufacturing is no longer off the table. “It’s part of today’s realpolitik”, she explained.
Backes also addressed concerns about the future of the transatlantic alliance. While no alliance can be taken for granted, she said her recent conversations with partners had reassured her that the will to cooperate remains strong, even if adapting to the new “tone” poses difficulties.
“There is no alternative to working together”, she concluded.
As Memorial Day approached, the ceremony left a lingering sense of reflection – on what has been lost, what is at stake, and the wars that continue, regardless of whether we wish them away or not.
