mr1492 Loc: Newport News, VA

I took these in 2016 during a trip to Italy. My wife wasn't thrilled with my suggestion that we visit the American Battle Monuments Commission Sicily-Rome American Cemetery and Memorial in Nettuno. However, it turned out to be an amazing experience.

I was just beginning my return to photography so these aren't the greatest shots ever. They were taken with my Sony a6000 and the kit lens. So, while the photos aren't great, the subjects are.

The first photo has a story. While we were waiting to talk to the young Italian girl who was at the desk of the Visitor's Center, there was a group of Germans ahead of us asking questions. We didn't think much of it at the time but we saw them again leaving this particular cross. It's for PVT Adolph Dietrick, Jr. from Michigan who died on February 23, 1944, somewhere in Italy. Those Germans visited the cemetery to put a flower on the grave of a relative (or the descendent of a relative) who had emigrated to the US. We stared for a long time at the scene and then I took the shot. I looked around but the Germans were gone and we never saw them again.

The second photo is the marker for Medal of Honor winner Sylvester Antolak of Ohio. If you want to learn what he did to win his medal, there is a show on Netflix entitled "Medal of Honor." SGT Antolak is one of the Medal of Honor winners profiled in the show.

I am not ashamed to say it but every time I look at these photos, a tear comes to my eye. I thank God that this country had men such as these who made the ultimate sacrifice for their comrades, their fellow citizens, the world, and their descendants.

Phil

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luvmypets Loc: Born & raised Texan living in Fayetteville NC

Very nice tribute on this Day of Remembrance!!

Dodie

vg Loc: Kansas City area

Awesome pictures. Thank you.

nervous2 Loc: Provo, Utah

In my mind and to my eye, perhaps thru a tear or two, your shots are magnificent. Thank you for taking them and for posting them here.

NMGal Loc: NE NM

Dodie nailed it - A Day of Remembrance.

nimbushopper Loc: Tampa, FL

Lagoonguy Loc: New Smyrna Beach, FL

Thank you for sharing. My wife and I were privileged to visit the Florence American Cemetery in 2016 and it was a very moving experience. Tears are appropriate for these sacred resting places so far from home.

J-SPEIGHT Loc: Akron, Ohio

Got me teared up. Thanks for posting Phil

archernf Loc: Marietta, GA

One does NOT "win" the Medal of Honor....it is awarded. Neil

jederick Loc: Northern Utah

go2hale Loc: North of , Abilene, TEXAS

Thank you !

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

Thanks for sharing the story and your excellent shots!

nervous2 Loc: Provo, Utah

Commented on this yesterday. Watched the NetFlix show on Sylvester Antolak last evening. Then I watched more episodes. I was particularly impressed with the episode featuring Medal of Honor recipient Vito Bartolo (sp) who was initially classified 4-F, then when he reapplied and men were needed he was allowed in but assigned as a cook. His story and how he ended up with the honor was amazing and very touching to me. Thanks again for the post.

Bubalola Loc: Big Apple, NY

Thank you, Phill, for sharing your photos, memories, and feelings...they are priceless...

Michael1079 Loc: Indiana

Very nice! Thank you!