German memorial in Comines-France

In the civil cemetery in Comines-France there is a large tower commemorating the German war dead. It was probably designed by the same architect who was responsible for the tower in the Dalle Park in Wervik. It also bears a strong likeness to a similar monument in Evere (Brussels).

The tower is engraved with a verse from the Gospel of St. John: 'Niemand hat grossere Liebe denn Die dass er sein Leben lasset für seine Freunde.’ (John 15:13.).

In Brandhoek New Military Cemetery in Vlamertinge you will find exactly the same verse - but in a different language - on the headstone of the British Captain Noel Chavasse, the only man to win the Victoria Cross twice in the First World War. The text was chosen by his father, an Anglican bishop: 'Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.'

Both sides thought the same: 'God is with us' or 'Gott mit uns'.

In 1958 all the German graves in Comines were transferred to Saint-Laurent Blangy, near Arras in France. Only the tower remains.

Vl. Toeristisch bezienswaardigheden