The Royal Canadian Artillery Association is proud to share this lasting memory of OP TAKE POST – a commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands.

The Royal Canadian Artillery Association conducted an 80th Anniversary Liberation of Holland Commemorative Battlefield Tour from 2 to 11 May 2025.

• The 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Holland was a major event – the very last major event while veterans of the Second World War are still with us. These commemorative events in Holland every fifth year are always a big deal – but this one was special.
• The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery played a major role in the Second World War, especially in the Liberation of Holland.
• Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) were the lead Department for Canada in official ceremonies, and the Department of National Defence (DND) supported the VAC efforts (typically a multi-service Guard, Band, Logistics support, Security, VIPs, airlift, etc.).
• Separate from the “official” GOC activities, many Branches/Corps, Regiments, Associations, and travel companies organized commemorative trips to participate in the 80th Anniversary of Liberation of Holland.

Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Holland and battlefield tour (OP TAKE POST) in May 2025 was an unforgettable experience. The Toronto Artillery Foundation, in support of the regiment, provided sponsorship for five serving members to participate. In total, 7th Toronto Regiment had 14 present and past members attend – the largest contingent of all the units attending. There were a total of 92 persons from artillery units across Canada participating in OP TAKE POST. The display of remembrance and gratitude of the Dutch people to the Canadians was amazing. They really take the time to remember and commemorate the sacrifices made.

Honorary Colonel Jeannette Chau, 7th Toronto Regiment, RCA