Wreaths bearing the crest and name of 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron Air Training Corps were laid during two services held in the Netherlands to commemorate the Dutch National Remembrance Day.

Unlike the Remembrance Day services in the UK which are held on the 11th November the Dutch hold their National Remembrance Day on the 4th May. It commemorates all civilians and members of the armed forces of the Kingdom of the Netherlands who have died in wars or peacekeeping missions since the outbreak of World War II.. The Dutch Remembrance Day services also serve to reaffirm the strong links to the allied nations who’s servicemen also laid down their lives for the liberation of the Dutch people.

121 (Nuneaton) Squadron’s Civilian Committee member Alf  Perry was invited to lay Wreaths on behalf of the Squadron at two services which were held in the town of Harlingen on the northwest coast. The first service was held on the quay side at a monument to commemorate merchant seamen. The second service was held at the local Commonwealth War Cemetery where there are 72 graves of allied servicemen, mostly Airmen.

Alf  Perry said, “It was an honour to be able to lay the wreaths on behalf of 121 Squadron at both ceremonies. I have some close friends in Holland and they are always very keen to show their appreciation for the part that the British played in liberating their country.”

Flt Lt Paul Hincks of 121 Squadron added, “My wife’s mother and father met during the liberation of Holland. Her mother’s family lived in Uden and over the years I have heard so many stories about the occupation and I can vouch for the fact that the Dutch people have a lasting appreciation for the British for helping to liberate their country. They are so proud of the way they maintain the many Commonwealth War Cemeteries which are sited all over the Netherlands and I am so proud of the fact that Alf has had the opportunity to lay these wreaths on behalf of the Squadron.”