Fourteen iconic London taxis carrying eleven WWII veterans, alongside other veterans and volunteers from the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, travelled to the Netherlands this week to take part in the annual Dutch Liberation commemorations in Wageningen, the city where the German capitulation was signed in May 1945.
The annual trip, organised by the Taxi Charity, once again highlighted the enduring bond between the Dutch people and the British veterans who helped liberate their country more than 80 years ago.
At midnight on 4 May, 103-year-old WWII veteran Robbie Hall had the honour of lighting the Flame of Liberation during a poignant ceremony in Wageningen. Thousands gathered in the town square to witness the emotional moment marking the transition from remembrance to liberation.
The following day, the veterans proudly led the Freedom Parade through the streets of Wageningen while Robbie, alongside Chris Rampling, the UK Ambassador to the Netherlands, watched from the main podium with representatives of the Dutch King and the Wageningen 45 Committee. Tens of thousands of families lined the streets, applauding, waving flags and thanking the veterans as they passed through the historic city.
During the visit, the veterans also paid their respects at the Oosterbeek Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery. Among them was 100-year-old Market Garden veteran Geoff Roberts MBE, who laid crosses at the graves of two close friends killed during the battle in 1944. The moving moment served as a reminder that, for many veterans, these commemorations are not only celebrations of freedom but also deeply personal acts of remembrance.
The convoy of London taxis received a remarkable reception throughout the trip. Dutch Police escorted the cabs to and from the Hook of Holland, temporarily closing motorways to ensure the veterans travelled safely and smoothly. From the Stena Line ferry crossing to the staff at the Fletcher Hotel in Wageningen and the Arnhem 40-45 Museum, the veterans were warmly welcomed and treated as honoured guests wherever they went.
Ann Russell, daughter of WWII veteran George Durrant, praised the Taxi Charity volunteers and drivers who made the visit possible. She said:
“Dad has loved it and we’ve made such special memories. We’ve been blown away by how much everyone cares and by the kindness shown to all the veterans.”
Chris Janssen, Director of Wageningen 45, said the veterans remain at the heart of the city’s liberation commemorations. He said:
“The WWII veterans are the absolute guests of honour in Wageningen. Through them, the Second World War becomes living history for younger generations. The veterans and the Taxi Charity are woven into the very soul of Wageningen, the City of Liberation.”
Taxi Charity Chairman Colin Mills said:
“One of the most special things about the Taxi Charity is the friendships that develop between the cab drivers and the veterans. Many of our drivers have supported the same veterans for years and those bonds are incredibly important.”
The Taxi Charity for Military Veterans has supported veterans for more than 75 years, providing transport, companionship and memorable trips for those who served their country, while ensuring the sacrifices of WWII veterans are never forgotten.
To fund and facilitate their work, the charity is wholly reliant on donations, grants and sponsorship.
www.taxicharity.org and if you would like to read more about the work of this charity do sign up for the newsletter here www.taxicharity.org/newsletters
