The Ghosts of the Great War

Reflections on Belgium

The destructive story of World War I is still deeply felt in Europe, where bodies, parts of bodies, shells, artillery fragments, live ammunition, and personal items such as letters, books, clothing, and other reminders of war are still being discovered. But in the United States of America, it’s known as “the forgotten war,” and Joan McMahon Flatt didn’t know much about it before visiting her daughter, grandchildren, and son-in-law, a Royal Air Force major, in the historic city of Mons in Belgium. With most of Europe commemorating the 100th anniversary of the start of The Great War, the author found herself climbing through trenches, visiting cemeteries, and walking the hallowed grounds around the Somme, Messina Ridge, and other war sites. A truly spiritual experience enveloped her as she contemplated the futility of a war where millions of lives were needlessly lost in a stalemate that lasted more than four years. From explanations on the changes in military warfare, to the effects of the Treaty of Versailles on the Middle East and an examination of how the world is once again on edge, you’ll gain valuable knowledge with Reflections on Belgium.