Ottawa, May 1, 2007: “The Dutch remember. They teach their children about the war in their schools; they teach that freedom is everything and that, if not defended, it can be lost.” Jack Granatstein, Canada’s most renowned military historian, praised the people of the Netherlands in the way they remember.

Granatstein addressed a group of proud veterans, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs and several Dutch war brides during a Reception of Appreciation at the residence of the Dutch Ambassador in Ottawa.

Meaningful

Granatstein’s words were truly meaningful. Everybody in the audience was touched by his well-chosen en heartfelt words. “The Dutch certainly know how to remember. In May 1995 in the Netherlands, the one country in the world where Canadians are universally hailed as liberators, every house was decorated in the colours of the House of Orange and with Canadian flags. Home-made banners, obviously erected by ordinary citizens or neighbourhood associations and not by the state or municipalities, seemed to stretch across every street. I especially remember the theme of gratitude, written in English on one banner in Apeldoorn that was clear to all: “Bless You, Boys.” “

It was wonderful for veterans to be able to meet with Mr. Granatstein in person and to share their own experiences. Granatstein had just returned from a trip to Europe, including the commemoration at Vimy Ridge.

Other guests

Other greetings came from Ambassador Karel de Beer, the Honourable Mr. Marc Eyking, Sydney-Victoria MP, and Mr. Joe Geurts, CEO of the Canadian War Museum. For Ambassador De Beer it was an honour to host this reception, which was also attended by Ms. Susanne Tining, Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs, Terry Tobin of its Remembrance Unit and the Honrourable Terrance Christopher, Usher of the Black Rod of The Senate.

The Embassy would like to thank all veterans and their organisations for their assistance, especially Wally Kasper, Bill Black and Barry Hellman.

The full text of Mr. Granatstein’s speech can be read here.