Yesterday we celebrated Liberation Day. In the morning, Remco Reiding, director of our foundation, gave a speech in the city centre of Amersfoort where he told the story of Pjotr Koval—and of the time that stood still for his wife Galina.
In doing so, he drew a connection to the present: “Freedom is being able to walk around here without thinking. That time simply goes on for you. That you don’t have to wait for someone who might never return. For Galina, time stood still. For us, it did not.”
With those words, he conveyed a clear message: “Use your time. Celebrate your freedom.”
The Soviet War Cemetery Foundation is one of the initiators of the activities on May 5 in the city centre.
In the afternoon, history literally came to us. Six historic military vehicles arrived at the Soviet War Cemetery Experience, where visitors could experience them up close. Young and old took the opportunity to catch a ride — a unique experience for many.
Spread throughout the afternoon, many dozens of visitors came to the museum. It was a beautiful and lively day, with lots of interest and engagement — just as you would hope for on Liberation Day.
