Dutch National Battalion (The Forgotten Battalion)

The Dutch National Battalion (DNB) consisted of more than 400 people in hiding and resistance fighters from all over the Netherlands: pilot helpers, women, Jews, students, military personnel, deserters from the German Reich, those who refused the Arbeitseinsatz (forced labour), and many farmers’ sons. They considered it their duty of honour to join the Canadian liberation army and to fight actively on the front line. The battalion, comprising three companies, became an official part of the Canadian Army and assisted in clearing areas along the IJssel, Deventer, and Apeldoorn, via Tiel and the Veluwe region to Amersfoort, and after the war, among other tasks, in mine clearance.

Active Role of Civilians in the Liberation

The year 2025 marked the 80th anniversary of our liberation with the help of Allied nations. It is less well known that many civilians played an active role in this through the civilian army known as the Dutch National Battalion (DNB). The Nationaal Onderduikmuseum (National Museum of Hiding and Resistance) believes it is important to draw attention to this extraordinary battalion that was so vital to our freedom.

Return Home or Service in the Dutch Army

On 12 July 1945, the DNB was disbanded. While some members of the battalion chose to return home, others re-enlisted as soldiers in the Dutch Army and underwent training in mine clearance. Consequently, many men continued to deal with the aftermath of the war for months. This work, too, was not without danger.

On display at the Nationaal Onderduikmuseum (National Museum of Hiding and Resistance) until 31 July 2026!

Exhibition Dutch National Battalion | until 31 July 2026