When the Last Man is Gone, with Aaron Heft

The conversation between Heather A. Warfield and Aaron Heft explores the deep connections between the towns of Fismes and Fismette in France and the State of Pennsylvania, particularly the town of Meadville. This connection stems from events during the First World War, and has been ongoing since that time through acts of pilgrimage. Aaron shares personal stories and artifacts from his pilgrimages to these towns, highlighting the significance of shared experiences among soldiers across generations. The discussion also delves into the impact of war on communities, and the importance of memorials. The conversation explores the themes of memory, commemoration, and the psychological impact of war on veterans. It delves into how monuments reflect societal attitudes towards war, the sorrow experienced by those affected by conflict, and the significance of pilgrimages in helping veterans find meaning in their experiences. The discussion also touches on the evolving perspectives on war and memory, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the human cost of conflict and the healing potential of revisiting battlefields, memorials, and cemeteries. This episode draws from Aaron's chapter in the forthcoming anthology "Pilgrimages to the Western Front of World War 1: Historical Exemplars and Contemporary Practices," edited by Heather A. Warfield, Stéphane Michonneau, and Franck Viltart (published in 2025).

Takeaways:

*The significance of pilgrimage artifacts in connecting past and present.**Personal connections to historical sites enhance the pilgrimage experience.**Physical locations evoke strong sensory memories of past experiences.**The emotional impact of visiting battlefields is profound for service members and veterans.**Pilgrimage practices have evolved but remain rooted in shared experiences.**Monuments serve as reminders of victory and sacrifice.**Pilgrimages can evoke feelings of sorrow and loss.**The transformation of landscapes post-war symbolizes rebirth*.*The relationship between the US and France is unique.**Commemoration efforts often stem from a desire to honor fallen comrades.**Pilgrimages provide a means for veterans to connect with their past.**The concept of pilgrimage can reshape our understanding of war and memory.*

Aaron Heft is a military historian based in the Washington D.C. area. He completed his BA at Gettysburg College, and MA at Norwich University, and has served in various roles from infantryman to operations NCO in the Army and Army National Guard for the past 18 years, and currently works as a Historian for the U.S. Army Center of Military History. His research focuses on National Guardsmen in the American Expeditionary Force in World War I, including the post-war pilgrimages to battlefields by veterans and military organizations. Aaron also regularly travels to France to conduct "staff rides" for military units, connecting professional military education with pilgrimages practices.