Canadians in Combat: November 6th, 1944

Canadians in Combat: November 6th, 1944

The multi-faceted campaign in the Netherlands had seen much success, though at great cost.

Elements of the 3rd Canadian Division had slogged through mud and rain to accomplish their task - that of “bursting” the Breskens Pocket. While the town of Breskens itself had fallen on the 21st of October, small groups of determined German defenders remained active in the area. It was not until November 3rd that a victory could finally be recorded in the war diary of the Division - simply written as “Op. Switchback now complete”.

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Canada and the Liberation of Europe

Canada and the Liberation of Europe

Each year, Canadians pause in solemn reflection to honour those who have fought and died in the defence of liberty. But rarely do Canadians acknowledge the reverence and deep respect held for our Armed Forces around the world.

May 5th is celebrated as Liberation Day in the Netherlands. Festivals, concerts, and the like are held, in the words of Holland’s government, “to realize how lucky you are to live in a country where people live in freedom”.

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