Dutch cheer Canadian Liberators... Parade goers draped in Maple Leaf offer veterans unflagging gratitude.
VE Day, the 60th anniversary of the momentous Allied victory... But here in the heart of the country battle-weary Canadian troops wrestled from German occupiers in the spring of 1945, yesterday was emphatically, even ostentatiously, Canada Day.
In the Dutch city of Apeldoorn yesterday, more than 1,300 Canadian veterans were greeted by a joyous throng of 200,000 at a parade to mark the anniversary of their triumph over German occupiers. The city stages such a party every five years, but given the advanced age of most vets, this year's might have been the last.
"Thank You Boys!" was the message emblazoned on printed Canadian flags, full pages torn from Dutch newspapers that had been taped in front windows all over town.
To Alan: Thank you very much for your in-depth comment. I know exactly what you mean. But I was so impressed by all those men that walked, or in a car or wheelchair, in this parade. They were all in between 80 and 96 and came all the way from Canada to Holland for it. And you could see the emotion on their faces. It was really touching. I was born after the war, but being there made it so real... Anyway, as his name was so evident on this photo, I found his address on the Internet and sent him all the pictures I made. I have gotten several long letters back from him... even talked to him on the phone. Anyway, thanks again. Lida
This image lives up to your fine searching thoughts about taking photogrphs. The expression on the face of this Old Soldier is wonderful. Do I see tears welling up in his eyes? With respect to your preamble, I think that is just about the most concise explanation of 'Why' one takes a photograph that I have read, and I fully concur, "One man's meat, is another man's poison." you either like it or you don't! I would say though, that to another photographer is liable to not like a capture because there has been little or no effort to use the timeless principles of artistic composition. You portfolio, in my humble opinion, does show a great deal of elegance produced by thoughtful composition. Well done. Alan Mead, Quebec, Canada.
Thank you very much for your very kind words! They really mean a lot to me, both as a Canadian and as well as being a Canadian soldier. Over the last couple of weeks, I've watched several television specials on the liberation of Holland and it was extemely moving to see what had happened. Thank you very much once again Lida for your wonderful words, and may The Netherlands forever remain free!!
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{K:14261} 5/10/2005
