The Cemetery of Honour in Ommersheim is not only a final resting place, but also an important site of remembrance and commemoration. To preserve this special place, young people from the ‘Meilenstein’ project run by the Society for Work and Qualification in the Saarpfalz district (AQuiS) have shown great commitment to improving the grounds.
On the initiative of Gerhard Hartmann, a member of the Ommersheim Local Council, volunteers were recruited to carry out the cleaning work. They undertook the complete cleaning of the approximately 50 gravestones and the central monument, and their energetic efforts visibly enhanced the memorial site. Whilst the work was underway, Gerhard Hartmann provided the young people with fascinating insights into the history of the cemetery of honour. In doing so, he spoke about the graves and the people whose stories lie behind them. This enabled the participants to engage with the history of the cemetery of honour and to develop a deeper awareness of the importance of remembrance culture and treating historical memorial sites with respect.
District Administrator Frank John also visited the site to see for himself the work that had been carried out and the commitment shown by the young people: “For the participants, working at the war cemetery means far more than simply carrying out cleaning and maintenance tasks. They are given the opportunity to gain practical experience, develop their skills and take joint responsibility for a task that is valuable to society. In particular, this fosters teamwork, reliability and the ability to work independently. At the same time, the young people experience first-hand how their work contributes to a visible result,” said District Administrator John.
Participants in the ‘Meilenstein’ project at work at the Ommersheim Cemetery of Honour. Photo: Jérôme End
However, the work is not yet complete with the cleaning of the gravestones and the memorial. The young people will visit the memorial again on Remembrance Day to carry out further work, such as weeding. This will once again ensure that the memorial is preserved as a dignified place of remembrance.
The ‘Meilenstein’ project is funded by the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, Women and Health and the European Social Fund Plus, as well as by the Saarpfalz-Kreis Jobcentre. The aim is to support young people in gaining new perspectives and further developing their personal and professional futures.
The work carried out at the Memorial Cemetery demonstrates how practical learning and social engagement can be combined. Through their efforts, the participants have not only helped to enhance the site, but have also taken on responsibility for preserving an important part of regional history.