The celebration on 8 May 2005 of the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Europe at the American cemetery of Margraten in the presence of President Bush and Queen Beatrix went very smoothly and in style. This was due not only to the overall program and accompanying elements but also to the speeches delivered by Prime Minister J.P. Balkenende and President G.W. Bush. The text of both speeches is given below.

After the arrival at the cemetery and the greeting given by Queen Beatrix, President Bush as well as Queen Beatrix placed their signature in the Golden Book of the municipality of Margraten.

 

   

The following photographs provide an impression of the ceremony, as seen by the White House photographers:

 

  

From left to right: Mrs. Bush at one of the graves, after which she lays flowers at the figure of the grieving woman. Photo on right: President Bush and Queen Beatrix at the wreath laying.

 

  

From left to right: Airplanes in 'missing man' formation flying overhead. Dark clouds during the speech by the president. Photo on right: After the ceremony, the president met with American and Dutch veterans.

 The following photographs were taken by Corporal 1st class E. Nettekoven of the 30Natres battalion:

  

From left to right: The wreath laying took place in front of the tower, followed by the prime minister's speech. Photo on right: American and Dutch flafs on te graves.

 

  

From left to right: President Bush during his speech; the sun's rays lighting up the tower against the dark clouds provides a special touch. Photo on right: One of the press galleries at the cemetery.

 

  

From left to right: After the ceremony, the queen waves to those present. Photo in middle and on right: The arrival of Queen Beatrix, President and Mrs. Bush, and the greeting by Governor Baron van Voorst tot Voorst and Mayor Van Beers.

 

For the speech of president G.W. Bush, click here

For the speech of prime minister J.P. Balkenende, click here