The American Battle Monuments Commission participated in the 10th edition of Printemps des Cimetières, held May 16–18, 2025 with the theme, “Fauna, Flora, and Biodiversity in Cemeteries.” This year’s event invited visitors across France to explore how natural life thrives in spaces of memory and reflection. At three ABMC cemeteries—Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery, Rhone American Cemetery, and St. Mihiel American Cemetery—the public discovered the rich biodiversity coexisting with profound history and sacrifice. More than 30 visitors attended the Printemps des Cimetières at the three sites. 

Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery 

The largest American military cemetery in Europe hosted two engaging programs that brought together history enthusiasts, nature lovers and families. 

Early risers were treated to birdwatching walks led by the cemetery’s technical team, who shared insights into the local avian population that has made the cemetery their sanctuary. 

In the afternoon, visitors had a chance to meet the site’s horticulture team, learn about environmentally friendly techniques and see the tools used to maintain the vast landscape. 

“Each songbird we hear among the headstones adds a layer of life to the memory of those who rest here,” said Marie Caron, Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery interpretive guide. “Our conservation efforts are not just about maintaining beauty—they’re about protecting this ecosystem for future generations.” 

Rhone American Cemetery 

During the guided tours in the “Olive Grove” at Rhone American Cemetery, visitors saw the peaceful olive tree, the sentinel cypress and the pristine grass carpet who are silent witnesses to the echoes of Operation Dragoon and its fallen heroes. Then they took some time for quiet reflection. 

“For decades, this olive grove has sheltered both memory and life,” shared Johnny Matherne, Rhone American Cemetery superintendent. “It reminds us that commemoration isn’t static—it evolves and lives on in nature.” 

St. Mihiel American Cemetery 

The event offered a profound look into how biodiversity and solemn remembrance intertwine. Visitors were shown how the selection of native plants and careful landscape design contribute to both sustainability and dignity. 

“Our gardeners don’t just care for plants—they preserve a living landscape of remembrance,” explained Gérald Brady, Operations & Technical manager at St. Mihiel American Cemetery. “The quiet hum of bees, the rustle of trees—each is a gentle echo of the stories held here.” 

A living tribute to the fallen 

This year’s Printemps des Cimetières allowed ABMC to share a deeper story—one of remembrance rooted not just in monuments, but in the life that endures around them. The initiative reaffirmed ABMC’s dedication to preserving not only the memory of those who served, but also the biodiversity that flourishes in these sacred places.