Brunssum, the Netherlands – Military personnel, civilians, and distinguished guests gathered at Joint Force Command Brunssum (JFCBrunssum) for a solemn remembrance ceremony in honour of those who have given their lives in service, on 28 th May, 2025.
And on days like today, we are reminded that what unites us is far greater than what divides us
The event offered a moment of collective reflection for the NATO community, reaffirming the Alliance’s unity in diversity, and its enduring commitment to shared values.
Those remembered served under different flags, wore different uniforms, spoke different languages, and practiced different faiths – or none at all. Yet, in sacrifice, they remain united. Across cultures, continents, and generations, their memory brings people together.
Clergy from various NATO nations offered brief but meaningful words of remembrance. Msgr. Everard De Jong, Apostolic Administrator of the Military Ordinariate of the Netherlands; Father Bruno Mollicone from Italy; Muslim representative, Attaché of Deventer Religious Services, Husnu Ozmen from Türkiye; Father Pawel Cecha from the Greek Orthodox Church; and U.S. Army Chaplain Lt Col Frantzo Saint Val, all contributed reflections from their diverse religious traditions. Though their prayers and perspectives differed, their message was shared: remembrance transcends borders and beliefs.
“In NATO, we show every day that people from different backgrounds, faiths, and traditions can stand shoulder to shoulder, united by trust, loyalty, and mutual respect,” said General Miglietta, Commander of JFC Brunssum. “And on days like today, we are
reminded that what unites us is far greater than what divides us.”
Following the speeches and prayers, General Miglietta, accompanied by the religious representatives and other assembled distinguished guests, solemnly laid a wreath at the Memorial to the Fallen, paying tribute to all NATO personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Unveiled on 20 June 2023, the memorial was the result of a long-anticipated initiative by the JFC Brunssum community. Spearheaded by General Miglietta, it marked the 70th anniversary of the Command’s presence in Brunssum. Its inscription reads: “For our Civilian and Military NATO Colleagues Who Lost Their Lives While Serving in the Name of Peace & Security. Always in our Thoughts, Forever In Our Hearts.” The memorial, intentionally free of national symbols or specific language, stands as a universal place of reflection for all who serve at Camp Hendrik. It reminds us that while war may divide, remembrance has the power to bring us together.