I had the good fortune to be in Groesbeek for the May 4th Liberation Day commemoration this year, accompanied by STOLPI and 17DYRCH. For a small town of under 20,000, the turnout for the Silent Walk was quite amazing. I would estimate that 600-700 people walked the 3 km to the Canadian Military Cemetery and back. It was a very touching service and reassuring for a Canadian to see how much the Dutch value their freedom and and those who helped them achieve it.
Canuck, As we discussed at length, the Dutch do NOT forget. I remarked during our tour of the Overloon Museum earlier that day that three generations could be seen reviewing the various displays. And, my pet peeve was also discussed. The schools in our country do a disservice to generations past and future when they allocate a measly 3 weeks to WW1 and WW2. History was written by Canadian blood spilt on European soil. Our current school administrators would rather have the nation painted with the 'peace keeper' brush. Bullshit. May 4 was a special day for me on the tour. Thanks again to JVD and Stolpi.
Ramacal, This was Canuck's first since 2007. I have being fortunate enough to have had Stolpi as tour director since 2012. Trust you are well?
Yes, May 4th events are held across the country each year with a national 2 minutes of silence at 8pm.
Canuck May 4th is Remembrance Day (Dodenherdenking) on which day the Dutch remember their war dead,, not only from WW2 but other post war conflicts. This is followed, on May 5th, by the celebration of their Liberation. There is a very distinct difference in atmosphere on the two days.
I should have been clearer. I mean't this specific event and walk. I've been to the Netherlands myself a few times for events over the last several years. An incredibly moving time of year to visit.
May 4th, 2020 Rememberance Day in Holland On account of the Covid crisis the official ceremony at Amsterdam, for the first time in 75 years, was held without public. Only the King and Queen and a small delegation of government representatives was present. Normally thousands of people attend. All through the country ceremonies were likewise held without public ... no silent walk to Groesbeek this year. An subdued but no less powerful ceremony. The speech by the king Willem-Alexander was a first.