Germans on the run
On September 5, 1944, a day of mass jubilation and confusion swept through the Netherlands during World War II. Rumors spread quickly that the Allies were on the verge of liberating the country. This led to a wave of celebrating citizens who eagerly awaited their liberators. At the same time, German occupiers and collaborators fled in panic, causing chaos. Although liberation was still months away, this day, which went down in history as “Dolle Dinsdag” (Crazy Tuesday), marked a turning point in Dutch war history, with the hope of liberation seeming closer than ever.
As the Allied advance from Normandy progressed, more and more German units moved through the region, often heading towards safer areas. This led, much like at the beginning of the war, to numerous requisitions and looting.
From the window of his home on Eindhovenseweg, Mr. Nix managed to secretly photograph German vehicles retreating from Belgium towards Eindhoven just before the liberation.
Pictures:
- During the first liberation parade in Aalst, the above scene was re-enacted, but in a festive atmosphere.