FORT RILEY, Kan. - The German and Italian Memorial Ceremony was held at the Fort Riley Post Cemetery Nov. 19 to honor the 62 German and 11 Italian soldiers who died as prisoners of war at Fort Riley during World War II.
Col. Carsten Treder, one of the Fort Leavenworth German delegation members, addressed the audience at the annual ceremony with the thought of what this event means to military around the globe.
"We have again assembled at their graves to pay our respects to them, especially when their families are not able to do so," Treder said. "It reminds us that we have indispensable responsibility for our history and a commitment to protect peace, our freedom and our right. All of us can see or hear this everyday as we experience the loss of Soldiers who are performing their duties in many different regions of the world."
Continuing, Treder acknowledged the German P.O.W.'s who lost their lives during World War II.
"They served their country in understanding to fight for the right cause," Treder continued. "Today we know that they lost their lives within a war that was fought for unacceptable and fascistic political goals. We owe it to our fallen brothers in arms, their families and loved ones that we remember them and embrace them in our thoughts not only on this day but every day."
After Treder concluded his speech, Maj. Antonio Laundando, one of the Fort Leavenworth Italian delegation members, also addressed the audience.
"The men we are talking about … fought the bloodiest war ever," Laundando said. "They gave the ultimate sacrifice and should and will not be forgotten … They gave the ultimate sacrifice."
After the speeches, Lt. Col. Hagen Ruppelt, Germany, Lt. Col. Thomas Kopsch, Germany, Sgt. Maj. Gabriele Guidi, Italy, and Sgt. Maj. Mike Kitzler, Germany, placed wreaths at each headstone. The ceremony continued with a three-round volley, German taps and Italian taps. To conclude the ceremony, Chaplain, Lt. Col. Darryl Hollowell, Garrison, gave the benediction.
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