Special caretakers of a grave in the American Military Cemetery in Margraten, Netherlands were guests at the Lambrecht family reunion on Aug. 17, 2013. Fred and Rina and Jef and Annie Hodiamont came from the Netherlands to attend the reunion and meet more than 80 members of the Lambrecht family. Rina and Annie’s mother originally adopted the grave of Harold “Bud” W. Lambrecht Jr. about 20 years ago. Upon her death, to Hodiamont family was again approved as the official adoptees of Harold’s grave. Harold was killed in action in the Netherlands on Oct. 9, 1944 and is buried along with more than 8,300 American soldiers in the cemetery. Each year the Hodiamont family regularly places flowers on the grave and participates in ceremonies that commemorate the role and sacrifice of the soldiers in the liberation of Holland.
Also in attendance was Gordon King of Merrill, who enlisted with Bud Lambrecht in August 1942 and served with him as members of the 101st Airborne. Gordon survived the Normandy operation and the Battle of the Bulge. The Hodiamont family graciously met and thanked him for all he had done. Gordon enthusiastically shared his experiences with all in attendance.
The Hodiamonts spent the previous week in Wisconsin visiting various sites including the Northwoods, Lake Michigan and a farm run by another family from Holland. However, their primary interest was in meeting Bud’s family and discovering the area where he grew up and its history. They accomplished their goal and are now members of the Lambrecht family. Lots of tears, laughter and wonderful memories made this family reunion one to remember.