Frequently Asked Questions
Over the years we have received numerous questions. Some of them have been asked more frequently than others. How can I submit a photo? Why is the tribute organized biennially? You will be able to find the answers to these and other questions on this page. If you have any other question, please do not hesitate to contact us. Learn more about how you can reach us on our Contact page.
1. When will the next edition of The Faces of Margraten tribute be?
Due to the global pandemic caused by COVID-19, we had to cancel the tribute both in 2020 and in 2021. We do not yet know when the faces will return to the cemetery.
2. Why is the tribute organized biennially?
The Faces of Margraten tribute is only conducted every other year for two reasons. First, it takes an enormous amount of time and resources to host such an event and the volunteers that work so hard to make the event such a success have difficulties taking so much time off from their primary jobs. Second, and perhaps more important, this event is a very emotional one that touches the hearts of thousands of people. We believe that by having this event every other year will help to ensure that the emotional impact that it creates will remain strong by not becoming so routine.
3. Why are the photos only on display for such a short period of time?
The photographs and the stands that they are placed in create obstacles that prevent the cemetery staff from maintaining the cemetery to the high standards that are expected of such a site.
4. Can the photos not be attached to the headstones or be displayed in any other more permanent way?
No. The headstones are sacred markers that honor specific soldiers. Their design has been carefully considered and they have become a part of U.S. national heritage and therefore will not be altered.
5. Why did you not opt for showing the photos on Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is one of the busiest days of the year at the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten. The wreath laying ceremony, the flags that adorn each headstone, the fly-over, and other activities that take place on this day, while all very important, would detract from the emotional impact that the photos have when viewed during a more exclusive time period.
6. How do I submit a photo to the tribute?
If you have a personal photo of one of the soldiers who have been either buried in or memorialized at the Netherlands American Cemetery, there are various ways in which you can submit the photo to us. First of all, you can use this online form on our website. Secondly, you can also send them to our email address: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. If you do not have a digital copy/scan of the photo, you can also send a physical copy of the photo to the address below. Please clearly indicate whether you would like us to return the photo to you, for example because it is the only copy that you have, after it has been scanned to be included in the tribute and on the soldier's memorial page in the Fields of Honor - Database.
Fields of Honor Foundation
Velperweg 47-514
6824 BG Arnhem
The Netherlands
7. Is it possible to have a look at the photos online?
Yes. All photos are permanently included on the soldiers' personal memorial pages in our Fields of Honor - Database. We have also taken photos of the headstones and Walls of the Missing that were marked with a soldier's personal photo during The Faces of Margraten tribute in 2015. You will find these photos, as well as other photos of the tribute, on our Flickr account.
8. How do I know where my relative is buried or memorialized?
If you do not know where you relative is buried or memorialized, please consult the website of the American Battle Monuments Commission. The commission has a searchable registry that includes all U.S. soldiers who are buried in or memorialized at their sites.
