Screaming Eagles of World War II Foundation
The Kingdom of the Netherlands

Dear Friends,


I am grateful for the opportunity to offer a few simple remarks commemorating the liberation 
of The Netherlands and Dutch-American friendship. To quote the most famous Dutch-American, 
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, I will "be sincere, be brief, and be gone."

This afternoon we meet to celebrate the unique and enduring friendship between the Kingdom 
of the Netherlands and the United States of America. The close bonds shared by our two countries 
began long before the United States existed. In 1782, with the American Revolution barely over, The 
Netherlands became the first country to formally recognize the new United States of America. That 
unprecedented gesture of friendship proved vital to a fledgling nation struggling to find its identity 
among the international community.

Today over 15 million Americans, including three Presidents of the United States, claim Dutch ancestry. 
In remembrance of this rich cross-cultural heritage, we celebrate Dutch-American Friendship Day (April 19th) 
and Dutch-American Heritage Day (November 16th) annually. However, the 101st Airborne Division shares an 
especially exclusive connection to the Dutch people.

On September 17th, 1944, Screaming Eagles paratroopers descended from the afternoon sky to help liberate 
The Netherlands. The 101st Airborne Division's actions near Eindhoven, Son, Veghel, and along "Hell's Highway", 
further cemented the relationship between our two countries.

Historians often recount stories of the airborne invasion that liberated The Netherlands, but this great victory was 
not won by Soldiers alone. Dutch patriots, working ceaselessly alongside American Soldiers, fought bravely - risking 
everything - and suffered immensely for the sake of their country.

William Shakespeare wrote "from this day to the ending of the world we in it shall be remembered. We lucky few, 
we band of brothers. For he who sheds his blood with me shall be my brother". The phrase "band of brothers"has come 
to embody the challenges, heartaches, and unconquerable spirit of people bound by shared hardships. These close ties 
forever link those who suffered during wartime as no other experience can. The events of late-1944 have forged an 
indestructible comradeship between the 101st Airborne Division and the Dutch people. You are vital members of the "band of brothers". 
Without you, the liberation of The Netherlands could not have been possible. We are honored to call you brothers and sisters.

Although sixty-two years have passed, our cultural and diplomatic ties have never been stronger. In fact, 
our bond remains one of the longest unbroken international alliances in history. To ensure a lasting relationship 
into the 21st-century, we must work tirelessly to pass the spirit of Dutch-American friendship to the next generation. 
By encouraging their participation we can build upon the solid foundation of our mutual history while forging new 
relationships based on our common values and interests to build a better tomorrow.

I thank our Dutch friends for preserving the legacy of the 101st Airborne Division. Your organization's mission 
statement says it best: "to you from failing hands we pass the torch". The torch is now yours to hold high and, 
through you, the future of Dutch-American friendship burns brighter than ever.

With warmest regards,

Signed

Thomas R. Turner II
Major General, U.S. Army
Commanding General