Canada Marks 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands with Veterans Delegation
OTTAWA — As the world approaches the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, Canada is honouring the pivotal role played by its soldiers in the liberation of the Netherlands with a commemorative delegation and series of public events overseas.
Veterans Affairs Canada announced today that an official Government of Canada delegation—including more than 20 Second World War Veterans and their families—will travel to the Netherlands for remembrance ceremonies from late April to May 7. Many of the veterans will return to the very towns they helped free from Nazi occupation between the fall of 1944 and spring of 1945.
The delegation also includes representatives from Veterans’ organizations, department officials, and members of the Canadian Armed Forces. Together, they will take part in commemorative activities, highlighting Canada’s enduring commitment to peace and the close friendship forged with the Netherlands through war and remembrance.
A key moment in the commemoration will take place on May 2, when Canada co-hosts a ceremony at Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, the final resting place of more than 2,300 Canadian soldiers. The ceremony will be livestreamed on Veterans Affairs Canada’s “Canada Remembers” Facebook page.
From May 2 to 5, the public is invited to visit the Canada House Pavilion in Orange Park, Apeldoorn, where guests can learn about Canada’s military contributions and enjoy Canadian hospitality.
“As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands, we honour the courage and sacrifice of Canadian soldiers who stood shoulder to shoulder with our Dutch allies,” said Paul Ledwell, Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada. “Their unwavering commitment to freedom and peace transformed the lives of millions and forged an enduring bond between our countries.”
The Historical Legacy
Canada’s contribution to the liberation effort remains one of its most significant wartime legacies. An estimated 175,000 Canadians served in the campaign to free the Netherlands, with more than 7,600 losing their lives. The effort culminated in the May 5, 1945 surrender of German forces in the Netherlands, just days before the wider German surrender across Europe.
The Dutch people continue to honour Canadian sacrifices. On May 4, the Netherlands observes Remembrance Day for all victims of war, followed by Liberation Day on May 5, which features parades and celebrations across the country.
This year, over 1,000 Canadian students are expected to attend events in the Netherlands, helping to carry forward the stories of those who served.
How to Participate
Canadians are encouraged to follow along online and share tributes using the hashtag #CanadaRemembers. For more information on Canada’s role in the Second World War and ongoing commemorative efforts, visit veterans.gc.ca/CanadaRemembers.
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