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News | June 29, 2024 | 14:16
“Our veterans are committed to something greater than themselves. They stand up for the peace and security of others. Hard and selfless work that deserves our respect.” These are the words Minister Kaisa Olungren used today to express her gratitude to all Dutch veterans, 44 of whom were honoured on the 20th Veterans Day in The Hague.
In appreciation of their efforts, the veterans joined the Hofstadter audience and viewers at home for a festive day that included special stories from the mission area, a parade, an aerial salute, and a large meeting at Marleyveld.
As in previous years, the day began with personal stories at the Royal Theatre. King Willem-Alexander gave a speech there because of the anniversary. This year, extra attention was paid to the soldiers who have not yet returned from their mission. As in last year, a bouquet of flowers on the empty chairs in the theatre was a symbol of those who are missed. What was new was that the lead car of the National Day parade carried this bouquet.
Old-fashioned tenderloin
King Willem-Alexander’s military parade was attended by 18 aircraft Flyover Nearly 4,000 veterans and soldiers took part. This year, the Women’s Air Force also took part in the parade, marking the 80th anniversary of women’s enlistment. The parade ended in Malieveld, which was designed as a music square. Public events were held there throughout the day.
Medal for Effort During Mission
“80 years later D-Day Freedom in Europe is once again under pressure,” Olungren stressed at the Escher Museum at the Palais de Paris. “Veterans like you know its value. You all have your own story, your own unique experiences. ” The minister highlighted some of them.
Jaap van Amsterdam, Kees van Beuren and Rom de Heck were born during World War II. During their military service, they were deployed to New Guinea. Van Amsterdam was a driver and sometimes transported prisoners of war. Van Beuren went on patrols for weeks on end and searched for missing marines. With limited medical training, de Heck cared for patients who were sometimes very ill. All three contributed to stability and security in a very volatile region at the time. In recognition of their efforts, they were awarded the New Guinea Memorial Cross.
In 1979, Antoine Damen was on a Unifil mission when he struck a mine as a driver. His co-pilot died and he himself was physically and mentally injured. He received the Injury Badge. Olungren: “Let this award be a symbol of the recognition you deserve and help you in your handling.”
Maj. Danny Wolfe received the Special International Duty Medal for six tours of duty. His first tour of duty in Afghanistan had the most impact. “In Tarin Kotter, you faced the daunting task of applying search, first aid, and triage to medical support,” the minister said. “You witnessed untold suffering and faced grave adversities. You are still serving, and I wish you and your unit the best.”
Rocks in the surf
In closing, Olongren reflected on the unconditional commitment of all veterans to the home front. The silver carnation that symbolized this was presented to Patrick Brocken, husband of Nurse Sgt. 1st Class Vanya Brocken-Vandermegy. Olongren: “Your wife has been on three tours in the last six years. When you are home, you are always a rock. I want to thank you and through you to all of our veterans’ partners, children, families and friends for your tremendous contribution.”
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