Joe Mann memorial stone - Best

Near the Wilhelmina Bridge on Boslaan-Zuid in Best stands a memorial stone in honour of American paratrooper Joe Eugene Mann. The memorial, unveiled in 1984, was designed by A. Jacobs and manufactured by Koninklijke IBC of Best. The memorial stone is in the shape of a flower, symbolising the young life that ended here. In the centre is a circular image with a photo of Joe Mann and a relief of paratroopers. Below it is the emblem of the US Airborne Division.

Joe Mann was part of the 101st Airborne Division and landed in the Netherlands during Operation Market Garden in September 1944. On 19 September, during fighting near the bridge over the Wilhelminakanaal canal, he sacrificed his life to save his comrades. Despite previous wounds, he caught the explosion of a hand grenade with his body, protecting his fellow soldiers. For this act of heroism, he posthumously received the highest US military decoration, the Medal of Honor.

The monument commemorates his bravery and self-sacrifice. Surrounding the picture is the text:
‘THE JOB IS DONE AND MAY NEVER BE FORGOTTEN’.

Below it in Dutch reads:
‘ON 19 SEPTEMBER 1944, JOE MANN GAVE HIS YOUNG LIFE AS A SOLDIER IN THIS PLACE TO SAVE THE LIVES OF HIS COMRADES.’

This memorial stone is a tribute to Joe Mann and a lasting reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedom.

Photo: Heritage Society's Image Bank Dye of Best.