RIP Art Bell, 1 CACR

[Hanno Spoelstra]

One year ago today, Art Bell was brought to his final resting place. In his remembrance, I would like to share with you my adaptation of the poem “No Present without Past” by T. Grobben, which was read by a family member at his funeral:

Hunger, cold and frightening times
The Dutch minds are still yet fresh
There came the Men of Maple Leaf in battle dress
In heavy tanks and heavy trucks
In Kangaroos and ducks
With much love in our eyes
A memory that never dies
And tears from old and young
That bonded us for very long
Food from heaven in highest need
White bread, chocolate and corned beef
May 5, 1945 a day we never forget
A date in Dutch history was set
64 Years later and memories are fading
Soldiers then – Veterans now
Lest we forget is our vow

Today Holland bids farewell! to yet another “Kangaroo”.
All I can say is goodbye! to a good friend.

Rust in vrede, Art!