Gess Where Travels: Remembering the Past

We were fortunate to be in Amsterdam for the National Remembrance Day honoring those lives lost in the war - not only the soldiers but also the Jewish people that were killed. On the evening of May 4 a ceremony is held in Dam Square as well as other locations throughout the country. We were there and although we did not understand what was being said, it was clear what was happening as descendants of Jewish families told their stories. This was then followed by the laying of wreaths - most of them being carnations which we later discovered is their version of our poppy. We did understand when we heard Canada and realized Canada laid a wreath the ceremony The crowd was huge - apparently 15,000. We watched it on the big screens set up so pictures below are pictures of the screen but you will see the King and Queen there.

The next day is Liberation Day. It is recognized each year and every 5 years is a national holiday. We were fortunate to have a specialist with us as we learned a lot more about Operation Market Place, a failed mission that saw many casualties and thousands more taken prisoner. Just a note about our guide, a very humble man who informed us at the end that 2 weeks before he had been knighted by the King and his unit of 6000 men (we think from Afghanistan) received a Noble Peace Prize.

We learned about the battle outside the Church in Osterbeek. This church served as a hospital during the battle.

We then visited one of the many cemeteries in this area, Arnhem Osterbeek War Cemetery. Our guide was amazing and could tell you the story of many of the almost 2000 men buried there. Row upon row of grave stones line the well cared for area. We were taken to the gravesite of 3 Canadian soldiers. Most of the Canadians are buried in Groesbeek (2600+) but it was too far away to visit. Canadians were instrumental in the Liberation of the Netherlands and the respect for this is very evident. As a Canadian, it was a proud moment - yes it even led to a round of Oh Canada while at the cemetery. There wasn't a dry eye around.