Thank you, Nederland

[Dirk Leegwater (RIP)]

Last night at 8:00 Brian, Dirk and I attended the Cenotaph in the small village of Nord Scharwoude to observe Remberance Day in Holland. All church bells ring for a half hour before the service and then there is 2 minutes silence. THe only spoken words in the whole ceremony are by children. After the service to honour their veterans the whole crowd passes in front of the wreaths and proceedes through the town for a reflective quiet walk while the band plays hymns. Then all the flags are raised from 1/2 mast through the country. It is as moving here as it is at home. It was an honour to be present as the Dutch recognize their veterans . Today we will be in a parade in Spakenburg to honour the veterans of WW2, whatever their country.

Barry (on Dirk's computer)