Gathemo Honors Heroes of WWII: A Memorial for the 28th Infantry Division
Gathemo, France – On Saturday, the small French community of Gathemo unveiled a memorial to honor nine soldiers from Pennsylvania’s 28th Infantry Division who lost their lives during World War II. This poignant tribute commemorates the division’s critical role in liberating the town in August 1944, a part of the larger Battle of Normandy.
The 28th Infantry Division, often referred to as the "bloody bucket” by German forces, faced intense battles as they advanced through Normandy after the D-Day landings. The liberation of Gathemo was particularly brutal, marking a significant chapter in the division’s history.
Fifty-year-old Shaun Nadolny, whose great-uncle Jerome served in the 28th and was killed in the fight for Gathemo, led efforts to create the memorial. Using his family’s history as motivation, Nadolny connected with French historian Christophe Clement, who is dedicated to preserving the memory of Allied soldiers.
The ceremony serves as a reminder of the enduring bond between the French and their liberators, especially amid current global tensions. Nadolny reflects on how his quest for knowledge about Jerome blossomed into a memorial project, highlighting the collective sacrifice of the soldiers involved.
The event not only memorializes lost soldiers but also provides an opportunity for families like that of Pvt. Irwin S. Fox, another fallen soldier, to discover more about their loved one’s legacy, solidifying a deep, shared respect between nations.
As Gathemo remembers its liberators, the memorial stands as a testament to courage, sacrifice, and the incredible stories that remain intertwined decades later, bridging past and present in a celebration of freedom.
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