Two community heroes awarded royal honours for decades of voluntary service in Limburg
Richard van Elburg and Frank Speck, known for their tireless work in preserving local traditions and fostering community spirit in Landgraaf and Kerkrade, have been appointed Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau. Their dedication to festivals, music, and civic duties has strengthened social cohesion for years.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipients | Mr Richard van Elburg, Mr Frank Speck |
| Honour | Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau |
| Awarded by | Deputy Mayor Freed Janssen |
| Location | MFC An d’r Put, Landgraaf (Limburg) |
| Residence | Van Elburg: Kerkrade, Speck: Landgraaf |
| Voluntary Roles | Organising tent festivals, May/Whitsun traditions, Fanfare Sint Elisabeth |
| Additional Contributions | Van Elburg: Clog Dance; Speck: Cemetery management, Old Tractor Association |
| Date of Award | 22 March 2026 |
The Order of Orange-Nassau is a Dutch civil and military order of chivalry awarded to individuals for their exceptional contributions to society. Municipal governments, such as Landgraaf and Kerkrade, nominate candidates to recognise their long-term voluntary efforts and community impact.
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Read the full translated article below
Royal honours for Mr Richard van Elburg and Mr Frank Speck
On Sunday 22 March, Mr Richard van Elburg and Mr Frank Speck were appointed Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau. They received the royal distinction from Deputy Mayor Freed Janssen at MFC An d’r Put in Landgraaf. Alderman Bart Smeets was also present at the celebratory presentation.
Messrs Van Elburg and Speck share a long history of voluntary commitment within the Groenstraat community. For many years, they have been deeply involved in preserving the May and Whitsun traditions and in organising the annual tent festivals. Their efforts make a significant contribution to the continuation of these traditions and to community cohesion.
Mr Van Elburg, resident of Kerkrade municipality
Mr Van Elburg has played a central role in organising the tent festivals for many years, being responsible for construction, layout, technical facilities, permits and sponsorship. He is also involved in organising the Clog Dance and is an active member of Fanfare Sint Elisabeth. His technical expertise, reliability and sense of responsibility make him an indispensable force within the association and the community.
Mr Speck, resident of Landgraaf municipality
Mr Speck has also been making a remarkable contribution to various associations and organisations for many years, including as a (board) member of Fanfare Sint Elisabeth and as coordinator of the tent festivals. In addition, he served on the board in the fruit-growing sector and is treasurer of the Old Tractor and Motor Association, Limburg branch. He is also involved in the Ubach over Worms parish cluster, where he manages the cemeteries and assists bereaved families. His selfless commitment is characterised by a strong sense of responsibility and a willingness to always be there for others.
With their appointment as Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau, both gentlemen receive well-deserved recognition for their significant social commitment.