Dutch families adopt WWII soldiers’ graves and memorials

RICHMOND, Texas (CBS, KYMA) - A connection across continents is bringing new life to the memories of America's World War II Veterans.

93-year-old June West Brandt from Texas lost her brother William Durham "W.D." West Jr., a U.S. Airman, 80 years ago. His body was never found, but his name is etched on a memorial wall in the Netherlands.

A Dutch family has adopted his grave marker, and through regular video calls, west watches as they tend to the memorial, bringing her comfort and gratitude across the ocean.

"It's a fabulous thing. I mean, you know, he's just a name on a board, and now he's got a family. So, it's pretty nice," Brandt expressed.

All 10,000 graves and memorials at the Netherlands American Cemetery have been adopted by Dutch families, but only about 25% of the caretakers have been able to make connections with U.S. families.