U.S. AFRICOM commander honors fallen at Margraten Cemetery

MARGRATEN, Netherlands — U.S. Air Force Gen. Dagvin Anderson, commander of U.S. Africa Command, delivered the keynote address at the Netherlands American Cemetery’s Memorial Day ceremony on May 24, 2026. The event emphasized the sacrifices made by U.S. service members and highlighted the enduring strength of the U.S.-European alliance.

In his address, Anderson focused on the lasting legacy of liberty, encouraging attendees to reflect on the cost of freedom as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary of independence. He paid tribute to the soldiers of the 84th “Railsplitters” Division, stating, “They fought to ensure that darkness would not return, and they paid the price for the liberation we now gather to honor.”

Anderson also acknowledged the long-standing dedication of the Dutch citizens in caring for the graves at Margraten. He shared a personal connection to the cemetery, recalling that his great uncle, Sergeant Harold Jonathan, is buried there. “Yesterday, I was moved again when I met the van Galens – the family who has taken care of Harold’s grave for three generations,” he noted. “No one in my family knew someone has been looking after him for 80 years. They would be incredibly relieved to know someone still remembers and still cares. From the depths of my soul, I thank you, my family thanks you, and my nation thanks you.”

After the formal wreath-laying and his address, Anderson engaged with local Dutch officials, community members, allied military leaders, and families of the fallen. The ceremony was a poignant communal act of honor, reiterating that the sacrifices of ordinary people continue to shape the freedoms embraced today.

Please note, this is a developing story and DefSec Wire will provide updated reporting as more information is obtained from our sources.