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Liberation battle on Frisian soil | Liberation Route

(36.7 km)

During the liberation of Friesland in World War II, Canadian troops played a crucial role in freeing the region from German occupation. In April 1945, Canadian forces led the charge as part of the Allied campaign to liberate Friesland. They faced fierce resistance from the German troops, including intense battles at the creek Tjonger, where Canadian soldiers fought to secure vital bridges and defeat the enemy defenses. In the meantime, the Dutch resistance launched an attack on two bridges near De Blesse where they managed to occupy and hold both bridges.

Despite challenging terrain and heavy enemy fire, th…

During the liberation of Friesland in World War II, Canadian troops played a crucial role in freeing the region from German occupation. In April 1945, Canadian forces led the charge as part of the Allied campaign to liberate Friesland. They faced fierce resistance from the German troops, including intense battles at the creek Tjonger, where Canadian soldiers fought to secure vital bridges and defeat the enemy defenses. In the meantime, the Dutch resistance launched an attack on two bridges near De Blesse where they managed to occupy and hold both bridges.

Despite challenging terrain and heavy enemy fire, the Canadians demonstrated unwavering bravery and determination, eventually crossing the creek and gaining ground in Friesland. The local population welcomed the Canadians as heroes, and their efforts paved the way for the restoration of freedom and democracy in the region. Today, the Canadians' role in the liberation of Friesland is commemorated and honored, and their contribution remains a proud and significant part of the region's history, symbolizing the enduring friendship between Canada and the Netherlands.

Liberation Route Europe is a transnational memorial. A route that connects memorial sites and stories from all over Europe. For more information, visit www.liberationroute.com

Sights on this route

Starting point:

Hoofdstraat Oost
8471 Wolvega
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Sacrifice for freedom

In Wolvega's general cemetery, Allied honorary graves remind residents of the seven fallen crew members of the Lancaster JB 545 that crashed in the fields on the Sas (below Sonnega) on 16 December 1943.

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Sacrifice for freedom

Occupation of the Blesse bridge by the NBS

On 13 April 1945, the resistance in Weststellingwerf launched an attack on two key bridges near De Blesse over the Linde, including the Blesse bridge. Holding the Blesse Bridge facilitated and accelerated the Canadians' advance later in the day.

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Occupation of the Blesse bridge by the NBS
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Noordwolde the first village to be liberated by land

On 12 April, the Royal Canadian Dragoons were the first Canadian ground units to enter the province of Friesland near Noordwolde. This reconnaissance regiment would play a very important role in the liberation of the province.

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Noordwolde the first village to be liberated by land
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Execution of ten Dutch collaborators near Oldeberkoop

On 12 April, ten captured Dutch collaborators were shot without trial just outside Oldeberkoop. It was long thought that the Canadians had shot the men.

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Execution of ten Dutch collaborators near Oldeberkoop
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Ambush at Oldeholtpade

On 12 April, a Staghound of the Royal Canadian Dragoons drove into an ambush at Oldeholtpade. Private Wilfred Berry was killed. The rest of the crew were able to exit the vehicle with minor injuries only. Oldeholtpade still honours Berry.

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Ambush at Oldeholtpade
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End point:

Hoofdstraat Oost
8471 Wolvega
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