The Final Push: Holland, 27 March-12 April 2015

[Hanno Spoelstra]

Originally Posted by Hanno Spoelstra

Saturday April 4th 2015:
TFP Breakfast.
“Delden back to Then” (April 1945) starts. Liberation tour Delden – Zenderen – Hertme – Borne – Delden Centrum – Delden Twickel. Festive entry through Azelo, commemoration at the monument Vloedbelt, wrath laying in Hertme and lunch. Large march-past through Borne, including Poppy dropping by WW2 Recon planes (only by good weather).Festivities and speech by Mayor.
Visit to the bivouac open for public. Shows of Binnenlandse Strijdkrachten / Dames en Heren van Toen / Prinses Irene Brigade(?) / Canadian re-enacters. A steam train shuttles between Hengelo and Delden (maybe Goor also)back and forth. Grand party night at ‘t Hoogspel with Big band music (De Zendmasters). Dress contest for Ladies and Gentlemen in uniform and civil WW2 clothing.

Alex reported the number of Commonwealth vehicles taking part is limited, mainly because in Holland they are outnumbered by American-built vehicles.

But I can tell you the organizers made all the participants well ware of the historical setting in which this tour is taking place. A 63(!) coulor printed page road book has been put together, with historical background and bits 'n bobs on all the places being visited.

Many of the towns being visited have done their best to commemorate their liberation 70 years on. Delden for example has adopted a "back to then" theme, putting the tour into a historical setting as much as possible.

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