Suresnes American Cemetery
Set on the slopes of Mont Valérien, this is one of 11 American Cemeteries in France. Established in 1917 as a World War I cemetery, these 7½ pristine acres of sweeping, perfectly manicured lawn now harbor the remains of 1,559 American men and women who perished in World War I and 23 unknown soldiers from World War II. At the top center of the grounds, classic white marble loggias have bronze tablets that bear the names of 974 missing World World I soldiers, with rosettes beside the names of those who have since been identified. Marble figures stand in memory of all Americans who lost their lives in the two World Wars. Panoramic views of Paris and the Eiffel Tower from the loggia and the entire grounds add to the immense feeling of grandeur. Along with the views, the beauty, quiet, and stillness of this place, with its sea of immaculate white marble crosses, is a moving experience indeed. The cemetery is a quick uphill walk from the Suresnes Mont Valérien regional train station (and about a 20- to 25-minute train ride from Saint-Lazare station in central Paris), indicated by signs. If you're unsure, just head uphill from the station.
