Oorlogsmonument voor Antoon de Lange War memorial

Who remembers the chaos of war, even after the official surrender? Here at the Oorlogsmonument voor Antoon de Lange War memorial, we remember one such story. This memorial, a bronze Christus figure mounted on a granite cross, stands as a stark reminder of the sacrifice made by Antoon de Lange. It honors his bravery and the turbulent aftermath of World War II. The Oorlogsmonument voor Antoon de Lange was originally erected on October 6, 1945. It’s located on Nesserlaan, a road cutting through the peaceful countryside. The monument is more than just stone and bronze. It’s a testament to a young man’s courage. The inscription tells a poignant story. It reads, “Lord, your soldier, who fell in battle, begs you: help Holland! I’ll be alright! On this 7th of May 1945, fell for his fatherland, as a member of the Dutch Domestic Armed Forces, Antoon de Lange, born 9 Nov 1920.” Antoon de Lange, a member of the Dutch resistance, was only 24 years old when he died. On May 7, 1945, the day of the German capitulation, a group of SS soldiers were confiscating bicycles. Antoon, along with other members of the Binnenlandse Strijdkrachten, pursued them. The chase led across the Amstel River and into the polder. Antoon, familiar with the area from his days as a baker’s deliveryman, raced ahead on a commandeered bicycle. The ensuing firefight on Nesserlaan ended tragically. Antoon was shot in the head, losing his life on the very day the war officially ended. The Oorlogsmonument voor Antoon de Lange has endured its own trials. It was stolen in 1971 and later recovered and restored. It was vandalized in 2007 but once again repaired. These acts only underscore the importance of remembering Antoon’s sacrifice and the ongoing fight against violence and disregard for history. Today, local school children from De Zwaluw participate in annual commemorations at the Oorlogsmonument voor Antoon de Lange. They read self-composed poems, a powerful tribute to the young man who gave his life for his country, even in the war’s final hours. The Oorlogsmonument voor Antoon de Lange serves as a reminder that peace is fragile, and freedom comes at a cost. It stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Dutch people.