80 years after they liberated the Netherlands, Canada to send veterans for celebration

Robert Loken with Veterans Affairs Canada talks about why the government is seeking out Second World War veterans.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. To celebrate the occasion, Veterans Affairs Canada is looking to bring a group of veterans to the Netherlands.

The Government of Canada is preparing to send a delegation of veterans to the European country in May to commemorate the milestone anniversary. Veterans Affairs has put out a call asking if any veterans would like to join.

“It’s really an opportunity to bring them back to those places and allow the local population to celebrate the heroes that saved them absolutely,” said Robert Loken, the national manager of honours, awards and commemoration for Veterans Affairs Canada.

In May 1945, news spread around the world of Nazi Germany’s surrender – bringing an end to the bloody war in Europe. Canadian troops were the first to cross into Netherlands and liberate the country.

“Obviously, the population in those countries celebrated our arrival,” Loken said, adding Canada has a special relationship with the Netherlands beyond its liberation.

He said Princess Margriet of the Netherlands was born here in Canada in 1943, as the royal family was forced to flee their country occupied by Nazi Germany.

“The Government of Canada passed legislation stating that particular hospital room would be considered Dutch territory, so that she would be born in the Netherlands,” Loken said. “Which then led to the Netherlands donating thousands of tulips to Canada every year.”

There will be two delegations. One will attend events and activities across Canada, and the other will head to the Netherlands for the celebrations.

Loken said they anticipate about 30 veterans will attend the overseas events.

“We are primarily seeking veterans who served in the Second World War, ideally veterans who participated in the liberation of the Netherlands,” he said, but noted they won’t turn others away.

“Any Second World War veteran who is healthy enough to travel is more than welcome to join our delegation.”

Any veteran interested in attending is asked to contact Veterans Affairs Canada by Jan. 31, 2025. You can email [e-mail]