Heather A. Warfield delves into her research to establish an artistic connection between the “Devil Dog” fountain head and Pierre Louis Rouillard’s Chienne et les petits sculpture, which was fabricated by the Durenne Foundary in Sommevoire. Highlights include the research process undertaken to uncover their origins, and the fieldwork conducted at the Louvre and in Champigny-sur-Marne to establish links between these artworks and the fountain. The findings suggest a deeper cultural and historical narrative surrounding the sculptures and their relevance today.

This conversation explores the intersection of military history, personal connections, and educational experiences through the lens of a United States Military Academy pilgrimage staff ride to France. Heather A. Warfield and Rose Horswill discuss their reflections on a Ravivage ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe, the planning and execution of a unique educational trip for West Point cadets, and the psychological aspects of battlefield experiences. They delve into the personal connections that inspired the trip, the engagement of students in the preparation process, and the concept of pilgrimage as a shared journey. The conversation culminates in an overview of the itinerary, highlighting the significant sites visited during the staff ride. The conversation explores the experiences of cadets retracing the steps of the Yankee Division during World War I, focusing on their training, lesser-known battlefields, and the significance of reflection and commemoration. The discussion highlights the emotional impact of the pilgrimage, the cadets' engagement with history, and the importance of understanding the legacy of military service. Themes of identity, memory, and the complexities of historical narratives are also examined, emphasizing the personal connections to the past and the ongoing relevance of these experiences. Key points include: *The ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe is a special experience.* *Planning a pilgrimage staff ride requires extensive preparation.* *Staff rides are participatory field trips for military education.* *Personal connections to military history can inspire educational experiences.* *Engaging students in research enhances their learning experience.* *The meaning of pilgrimage can vary.* *Visiting battlefields evokes deep emotional responses.* *Military cemeteries serve as important sites for reflection and remembrance.* *The trip aimed to connect cadets with the experiences of WWI soldiers.* *Exploring lesser-known battlefields provides important historical insights.* *Reflection is crucial in understanding the experiences of soldiers.* *Pilgrimages allow for meaningful commemoration of service members.* .*Battlefield pilgrimages enhance understanding of historical trauma.* *Memory in history is complex and often contested.*

Heather A. Warfield introduces Psychology of Pilgrimage podcast and why she created it. Then, she and Kathryn Hurlock delve into the multifaceted nature of pilgrimage, exploring its psychological, historical, and social dimensions. They discuss the motivations behind pilgrimages, the impact of commercialization, and the role of rituals. The conversation also touches on how social media influences modern pilgrimage practices and the future of pilgrimage studies as a distinct academic field.

Key points include:

*Pilgrimages are often motivated by healing and spiritual reasons.* *Commercialization can coexist with the spiritual significance of pilgrimage sites.* *Modern pilgrims frequently overlook the historical complexities of pilgrimage.* *Pilgrimages can serve as acts of resistance for marginalized communities.* *Rituals associated with pilgrimage are evolving due to social media influence.* *There is a growing interest in the psychological aspects of pilgrimage.* *Pilgrimage studies are becoming more formalized as a distinct academic field.* * The motivations for pilgrimage are diverse and multifaceted.* *Historical pilgrimage practices have evolved over time, reflecting societal changes.* *The intersection of politics and pilgrimage is a significant area of study.*