American Battle Monuments Commission will participate in Printemps des Cimetières 2025, organizing special events at three cemeteries in France.

From May 16-18, 2025, this annual event will provide the public an opportunity to reflect on the service of U.S. military personnel and learn about the theme of this year’s event: “Fauna, Flora, and Biodiversity in Cemeteries,” through guided tours, workshops and talks. Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery, Rhone American Cemetery and St. Mihiel American Cemetery are participating in this 10th edition.  

A different way to honor U.S. service members  

Printemps des Cimetières is a French initiative that encourages people to visit cemeteries during the spring season, highlighting the cultural, historical and ecological importance of these sites. This year, the theme focuses on the role cemeteries play in preserving not only the memory of those laid to rest but also the biodiversity and natural beauty of these spaces. ABMC’s participation in this event underscores its dedication to honoring the service and sacrifice of U.S. military personnel while also recognizing the environmental significance of its cemeteries. 

During the weekend of May 16-18, 2025, ABMC will host a series of activities at its three cemeteries, showcasing the flora and fauna found at each site alongside educational programs about the individuals buried or memorialized there. The events will include guided tours, talks on biodiversity, and other commemorative activities, providing visitors with a comprehensive experience of history and nature. 

Showcasing Biodiversity and the Environment 

Cemeteries are often havens for a wide variety of plant and animal life, offering a peaceful space for both human reflection and ecological preservation. Visitors are invited to learn about the diverse species that inhabit these sites and the efforts made to maintain and protect them. 

“We are proud to be part of the 10th edition of Printemps des Cimetières that celebrates the intersection of nature and history,” said Karen Wurzburger, chief of Visitor Services and Interpretation at American Battle Monuments Commission. “As stewards of these memorials, we recognize the importance of preserving both the historical significance and the natural beauty of our cemeteries. This year’s theme is a meaningful way to explore how these spaces contribute to biodiversity and collective memory.” 

The full program at American Battle Monuments Commission sites 

The three ABMC cemeteries participating in Printemps des Cimetières 2025 will feature a variety of events: 

• Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery – Tours May 17-18, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.: “Honoring Soldiers and Preserving Biodiversity: A Shared Commitment at the Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery.”  

The cemetery is a true haven of peace. It hosts a wide variety of birds, highlighting its importance for biodiversity preservation. During this special event visitors will have the opportunity to observe the birds that are nesting in the cemetery. The technical team will also highlight conservation efforts undertaken to protect their habitat. Walking shoes and binoculars are recommended for an optimal experience. Meeting point at the chapel. No registration needed.  

• Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery – Tours May 17-18, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.: “Horticulture in Service of Memory: Meet the Meuse-Argonne Green Team.”  

The technical team will explain the green space management techniques used at Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery. They will show the equipment and tools used to maintain this historic site.  

Walking shoes are recommended. Meeting point at the central fountain. No registration needed. 

Please note that the raising of the flags will happen at 9 a.m. and the lowering of the flags at 4:30 p.m. They can be attended by visitors.   

• Rhone American Cemetery – Tours May 16, 2025, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.: “In the Olive Grove… the enduring beauty of the nature at the Rhone American Cemetery remembers the immense sacrifice for peace in Southern France.”  

During the tour, the ABMC team will bring visitors to the peaceful olive tree, the sentinel cypress, the pristine grass carpet and the beautiful gardens to tell the stories of the fallen heroes lying here and of the war the flora witnessed 80 years ago. No registration needed. Meeting point in front of the office. 

• St. Mihiel American Cemetery – Tours May 17-18, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.: “Fauna, Flora and Memory: Preserving Biodiversity in a Place of Remembrance.”  

At St. Mihiel American Cemetery, nature and memory come together. Beyond the solemn rows of headstones lies a living landscape where gardeners work with care and precision to preserve both the dignity of the site and the richness of its natural life. From the careful selection of plants to the silent flight of birds, this visit reveals how flora, fauna, and human hands come together to create a space where history and biodiversity coexist in harmony. No registration needed. Meeting point in front of the office. 

Through these initiatives, the commission reaffirms its mission to maintain these cemeteries as places of remembrance, reflection and education while highlighting their role in supporting local ecosystems. 

In addition to honoring U.S. service members, the American Battle Monuments Commission’s participation in this year’s Printemps des Cimetières highlights the unique relationship between cemeteries and the natural environment.  

The agency’s involvement in Printemps des Cimetières reflects its continued dedication to preserving the memory of U.S. service members and educating the public about their sacrifices. This event will offer a unique opportunity to appreciate the harmony between history, nature and remembrance, fostering a deeper understanding of the cemeteries’ role in both honoring the fallen and supporting biodiversity. 

The American Battle Monuments Commission is dedicated to honoring the service of U.S. military personnel by creating and maintaining memorial sites around the world, offering commemorative services, and educating future generations about the sacrifices made by those who served. ABMC operates 26 cemeteries and 31 memorials across 17 countries, preserving the memory of the fallen and educating the public on the importance of their service.