This spring marks a profound milestone in the enduring bond between Canada and the Netherlands. Eight decades after Canadian troops helped liberate Dutch towns from Nazi occupation, a Canadian delegation is returning to Europe to honour that legacy of sacrifice and friendship.
Private W.R. Van Herne of the Calgary Highlanders receiving an injection in his wounded thigh from Privates G.M. Goderre and H. Couture 1 Nov. 1944 / Beveland Peninsula, Netherlands. Credit: Ken Bell / Canada. Dept. of National Defence / Library and Archives Canada / PA-131260.
In late April 2025, an official Government of Canada delegation will depart for the Netherlands to participate in commemorative events marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands—a campaign that remains one of Canada’s most significant military contributions in the Second World War.
A Return to the Battlefield
Among the delegation are more than 20 Canadian Second World War Veterans and their families. For some, this will be a return to the very landscapes where they once fought—an emotional journey back to the towns, roads, and canals that bore witness to Canada’s pivotal role in defeating Nazi Germany in Western Europe.
These Veterans will be joined by representatives from Veterans’ organizations, officials from Veterans Affairs Canada, and members of the Canadian Armed Forces. Their presence symbolizes Canada’s commitment to honouring its military past and keeping alive the stories of those who fought for freedom.
Ceremony at Groesbeek and Canadian Presence in Apeldoorn
On 2 May 2025, the Government of Canada will co-host a ceremony at Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, where over 2,300 Canadian soldiers are buried. The solemn event will be live streamed via the Veterans Affairs Canada “Canada Remembers” Facebook page, allowing Canadians from coast to coast to take part in this historic occasion.
In Apeldoorn, from 2 to 5 May, the Canada House Pavilion in Orange Park will open its doors to Dutch and international visitors. The pavilion will showcase Canada’s military heritage and extend Canadian hospitality, offering a space for education, remembrance, and reflection.
A Legacy Forged in Sacrifice
Canada’s campaign in the Netherlands, spanning from fall 1944 to spring 1945, was the final chapter in the nation’s major wartime involvement in Europe. Canadian soldiers played a crucial role in liberating occupied towns and cities—often through brutal and costly combat.
By the end of the campaign, more than 7,600 Canadians had given their lives, and as many as 175,000 participated in the effort. The German surrender in the Netherlands on 5 May 1945 paved the way for the full Allied victory in Europe just days later.
As Paul Ledwell, Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada, remarked:
“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. Their unwavering commitment to freedom and peace transformed the lives of millions and forged an enduring bond between our countries.”
A Shared Commitment to Remembrance
The bond between Canada and the Netherlands remains strong, anchored in the shared memory of liberation and gratitude. Each year, the Dutch observe Remembrance Day on 4 May and Liberation Day on 5 May, with widespread public ceremonies and celebrations. In 2025, more than 1,000 Canadian students will travel to the Netherlands to participate in these commemorations, reinforcing the importance of educating new generations about the cost of peace.
As Canadians, we share the responsibility to preserve the legacy of our Veterans. Their sacrifices laid the foundation for the freedoms we enjoy today. In marking this anniversary, we reaffirm our dedication to remembering their service—not only in words, but through continued education, commemoration, and international partnership.
Canada Defence Journal 