The Driel-Poland Foundation presents a reading on 9th June at 8 p.m. on the horrors the 1st Polish Independent Parachute Brigade had to endure and their battle in and around Driel.

The impact of WW2 for the Poles

During the first part of the evening, chairman Arno Baltussen will take you from the origins of WW2 in Poland to the division of the country between Germany and Russia and the deprivations this resulted in for Poles. Also, why did Russia allow a Polish army to be formed, while other Poles were forced to serve in the German army? Arno tells about it, as well as how they arrived in Scotland via detours for their training and were eventually deployed during Operation Market Garden at the Battle of Arnhem and dropped east of Driel.

The second part of the lecture will be conducted by board member Johan de Jong. Johan will talk about the Parachute Brigade’s contribution to Operation Market Garden, explaining the locations in Driel where the Poles had taken up their positions and where some of them died.

The event is open to everyone. Upon entry, you will be offered coffee or tea. All other refreshments will be available at the bar at your own expense.

Location: Sosabowski Hall, the Oldenburg, Hofplein 1

Program:
Start: at 8 p.m.
Part 1: lecture 45 minutes
Break: 15-20 minutes
Part 2: lecture 45 minutes

Given the capacity of the venue, we ask you to register in advance. You can do this by sending an e-mail to info@driel-polen.nl. In the e-mail, please mention your name and the number of people you are coming with.

We hope to welcome many volunteers, members of the various associations that contribute to our commemorations and other Driel residents.

Hope to see you on 9th June!