WWII Dutch intelligence leader's story inspired book, film
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"I feel that the fundamental basis of patriotism should be a belief in mankind and its freedom . . . far beyond the aspirations of any one nation, any one religion, or any one geographical location," Vandermeerssche wrote in the book.
"One must learn to discover the values and the similarities of human being that go far behind the color of their skin, the artificial and superficial expression of their creeds or religions and especially beyond the particular piece of land on which they live. The concept of 'international patriotism' is the only guarantee, it seems to me, for lasting world peace."
In a 1988 interview, he put it this way: "We have to start teaching our youngsters that patriotism, as we know it, to defend only -your- piece of land, is wrong."
There is this to be said for patriotism, that a more particular commitment has a better chance of realizing itself in action rather than sentiment. Obviously, one should not use it to excuse bad actions. G.K. Chesterton's remark that "My country right or wrong" is equivalent to "My mother, drunk or sober" certainly applies.
Gaston was a family friend - my grandparents ( Carl Moebius and Janet Moebius) are mentioned because they helped write the book.