The Liberation of Holland – Honouring 80 Years Of Freedom And Friendship

The Dutch Flag flying at the Armoury. Photos submitted

This year marks the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands: a pivotal chapter in the final stages of World War II, and a moment of profound connection between Canada and the Dutch people.

During the Second World War, the Netherlands was under Nazi occupation from 1940 until its liberation in 1945. Canadian forces played a decisive role in freeing the Dutch from German control. More than 7,600 Canadian soldiers lost their lives in this effort, with thousands more wounded. Their bravery not only helped to end years of oppression and suffering but also forged an enduring friendship between the two nations.

Currently, at the LCOL W.C Craig Armoury a red, white, and blue Dutch flag flies above the building, representing peace, freedom, and gratitude. The flag was personally brought back from the Netherlands by Jack Bowen, President of the 49th Battalion, Loyal Edmonton Regiment Association, after recent commemorative ceremonies abroad. It was installed by Don Henry, President of the Armoury Association, as a symbol of remembrance and shared history.

This flag will fly for one full year, serving as a living tribute to the Canadian soldiers who fought and fell during the liberation campaign. It also reflects the ongoing respect and appreciation held by the Dutch people, who continue, even decades later, to tend the graves of Canadian soldiers and teach younger generations about the price of their freedom.

As we mark 80 years since the liberation, this act of remembrance in Vermilion is a powerful reminder of the values we share and the bonds built through sacrifice. The flag is more than a symbol, it is a message of hope, unity, and peace passed from one generation to the next.

On June 6 the Town of Vermilion assisted the Armoury in having a special crosswalk painted at the 50th Ave and Railway Ave cross. The crosswalk is in honour of the 80th year anniversary of the Liberation of Holland.

“We put the 49th Battalion The Loyal Edmonton Regiment on the south side of the crosswalk and the Northwest Europe on the north side of the cross walk to cover the time from the early fall of 1944 to the end of the war in May of 1945,” said Don Henry, President of the LCOL W.C. Craig Historical Society. “We would like to say a big thank you to the Town of Vermilion.”

Another exciting happening at the LCOL W.C. Craig Armoury Historical Society is their 50/50 Raffle with one cash prize with the potential of being $10,000 if they sell out.

“The proceeds will go towards our continued upgrading of the Armoury. We’ll have tickets at the Red Brick, Mannville UFA, Armoury Executive, Kuk Sool Won adults, Archery and LER 2645 Parents support group will have tickets. Our huge push will be during the Vermilion Fair as the Lions Club has graciously offered us the use of their shed. We are privileged to live in such an awesome community that supports our efforts,” said Jim Storch of the LCOL W.C Craig Armoury Historical Society.