The Dutch Liberation

The Netherlands were liberated from German occupation in late April and early May 1945... and, needless to say, they were pretty thrilled. The country had endured misery and starvation and the arrival of liberators was more than welcome. The majority of troops involved in liberation were Canadian, making this a very proud and happy event for Canada as well. The Dutch still send thousands of tulip bulbs to Canada every year as a thank you. These wonderful photographs of liberation celebrations capture the joy of Dutch and Canadians alike.

A crowd in Utrecht welcoming Canadian liberators. Source

Allied forces distributing food. Source

Flowers for a soldier in a tank. Source

Dancing in the streets at an Amsterdam liberation party. Source

Children (in wooden shoes!) riding on a tank. Source

Liberator standing next to a German sign. Source

Nurses waving at Canadian liberators. Source

Waving at Allied planes over Holland. Source