On the fourth of may we went to Groesbeek in Holland. It was a very nice town despite the three teenagers speeding back and fourth down the streets on a mo-ped. The bus ride there wasn't to bad, it was cool because we had crossed the border and the funny thing was that there wasn't any stops or secruity, just passed the imaginary line into the Netherlands.
First off we went to the museum in Groesbeek which was directed towards the airborne unit that had dropped into Groesbeek and battled against the Germans. Outside there were vehicles from the war as well as a tank. The museum was very cool, we learned a lot about that particular battle in Groesbeek.
After the museum we went to have lunch, with a lot of other groups. We were all put into this big building with different gymnasiums and food courts where we had Hollon style mac and cheese. It was a lot different but i loved it! We then went on looking around Groesbeek and then we ended up getting ready for the celebration in Groesbeek for the 65th anniversary. All the schools were lined up with their flags that each school had made and once we were all ready we walked.
As you can see there was a lot of people.
We got to the cemetery where over 2000 graves lie. Again for everyone overwhelming emotions were felt as speeches were given both in dutch and english. The people from the Netherlands are extremely thankful and grateful for everything and they will never forget. They showed great compassion and care towards Canada.
After speeches, singing anthems and a two minute of silence, we all lit the candles that were laid infront of the grave we had been standing before . All Canadian students with EF each had their own grave that they stood at for the ceremony. It was really a moving time.
That pretty much summarizes our day don't want to drag or anything aha
anyway its twelve fourty at night and were getting up at around six fourty-five to drive to Amsterdam, very excited!..... Can't wait to write about todays events. It was truly amazing, once in a lifetime experience, never have I or my fellow peers felt that way before. Just Amazing.
Till tomorrow!
Hi Joey,
ReplyDeleteWe are so thrilled to be reading your blog each day and we thank you for sharing your thoughts, stories and photos with us. It is a time to reflect and remember all the Canadians who gave their lives during the war. We remember driving past Vimy Ridge when we were in France..it is a very special place.
Enjoy the rest of your trip.
We look forward to more great photos.
Safe journey...Uncle Ed and Aunt Theresa
Hi Joe...your pictures and blogs are so amazing! I really get a sense of what it was like for you - you're such a good writer!! You are seeing some pretty amazing things and getting a really good understanding of what went on over there - something most of us never get to experience. I can't wait to see all of your pictures - we might have to have a gathering so everyone can see and hear what you've seen!
ReplyDeleteKeep on writing and taking photos!!!!
Miss you!!
Mom
Mr. Ager just posted a link for the school to follow your blog. Thanks for sharing your powerful experience with us as you travel.
ReplyDeleteMr. McDonald (st. Dominic)
Hey Joey,
ReplyDeleteGreat blog and pics.....looks like the trip is everything you looked forward to and maybe more. See ya when you return....safe travels,
Ms. Doyle