Over the past weeks, EATC senior representatives participated in two important remembrance events in North Brabant, underlining the enduring importance of honouring those who fought for freedom. Major-General Franck Mollard, Commander EATC, and Dr Alexandre Verlaine, Head of Public Affairs and Protocol, represented EATC at both ceremonies.
Waalre: 81st Commemoration of the Brabant Fallen
On the evening of 10 September, the 81st Commemoration of the Brabant Fallen took place in Waalre, one of the Netherlands’ oldest remembrance ceremonies and the only one held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. At the historic Willibrordus Church, General Mollard had the privilege of laying a wreath in tribute to more than 2100 soldiers and resistance fighters who gave their lives during the Second World War.
The solemn ceremony was followed by a silent procession to the provincial memorial, where representatives of the church, government, and armed forces joined in remembering the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who fought for freedom. Commemorations like this serve as a powerful reminder that peace, democracy, and security come at a price—a price that must never be forgotten.
Eindhoven: 81st Liberation Day
On 18 September, EATC representatives attended the 81st Liberation Day in Eindhoven, marking the city’s liberation during Operation Market Garden in 1944. The ceremony featured the symbolic arrival of the Liberation Torch, carried from Bayeux—the first liberated city in Normandy—followed by a parade of cultural and social organisations at the Stadhuisplein.
This year’s programme also highlighted lesser-known chapters of local history, with moving testimonies from descendants of survivors and the emotive power of music to keep memory alive. Thousands of residents gathered, young and old, to honour the past and reinforce the values of unity, courage, and freedom.
General Mollard and Dr. Verlaine expressed their gratitude to the organisers for the dignified and meaningful events, which continue to connect past generations with the present and future.
Lest we forget!