Premier Reflects on the 71st Anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands

The Province of Nova Scotia today, May 4, honours the role of Canadians in the liberation of the Netherlands during the Second World War.

"The Government of Nova Scotia joins with the Canadian Armed Forces in marking the 71st anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands," said Premier Stephen McNeil, Minister responsible for Military Relations. "Canada enjoys a unique and special bond with the Netherlands that was forged as a result of Canadian forces participating in liberating the people of the Netherlands from Nazi occupation in the final months of World War II."

More than 7,600 Canadian soldiers, sailors and airmen lost their lives fighting in the Netherlands under some of the most challenging wartime conditions. Canadians were greeted as heroes when they liberated towns and cities and saved millions from sickness and starvation.

"Many Nova Scotians paid the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom and peace in the fierce battles to liberate Holland," said Premier McNeil. "The bonds of friendship forged at that time still exist to this day and this is something that we should all be proud of."

A wreath-laying ceremony commemorating the role of Canadians in the liberation of the Netherlands takes place today at 3:45 p.m. at the Dutch Memorial in front of Pier 21, 1055 Marginal Rd., Halifax.