First World War Commemorative Garden

First World War Commemorative Garden. General John J. Pershing Boyhood Home State Historic Site. , General Pershing dedicated much of his postwar efforts memorializing those who served and sacrificed in the Great War. It is in that spirit that we honor his commitment to duty completing the “last detail.” , While approximately 35,000 American soldiers were buried in Europe, the remains of 46,000 troops were returned home. On July 10, 1921, General Pershing met the first ship with remains from Europe. He spoke of both hope and solace. “They gave all, and they have left us their example. It remains for us with fitting ceremonies, tenderly with flowers and our tears, to lay them to rest on the American soil for which they died.” , While there are no human remains in this First World War Commemorative Garden, we can reflect on those who sacrificed and ponder man and war. The cemeteries in Europe, with their huge scale and row upon row of burial markers, are reflective of the immensity of a world at war. Our rich Missouri soil joins soil from these cemeteries. , “Time will not dim the glory of their deeds, lest we forget.” , , General of the Armies of the United States John J. Pershing, As you enter this garden, we ask that you reflect on the sacrifices made by the men and women of the United States military. , Poppies bloom in this garden only briefly during the spring. The remainder of the year, the soil is bare, reminding us of the cost of war.