Goirle volunteer Harrie Zoontjens honored with royal distinction for 50 years of service
At 90 years old, Harrie Zoontjens from Goirle has been awarded a royal honor for his five decades of selfless volunteer work, including first aid, sports events, and community support. His dedication highlights the impact of local heroes on everyday safety and well-being.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Harrie Zoontjens |
| Age | 90 |
| Honor | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau |
| Location | Goirle, Noord-Brabant |
| Volunteer Work | 50 years (since 1976) |
| First Aid Involvement | 30 years (since 1986), board member, instructor, and bandager |
| Other Volunteer Roles | De Rimboe sports field, Ice Club Het Bankven, Brothers holiday home |
| Award Presented By | Mayor Mark van Stappershoef |
| Event | Themed evening of Goirle First Aid Association at Jan van Besouw centre |
The Dutch royal honors system recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to society through volunteer work or professional achievements. Local governments, such as the municipality of Goirle, nominate candidates and facilitate the award ceremonies to highlight community role models.
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Royal honour for Harrie Zoontjens from Goirle
Mr Harrie Zoontjens from Goirle received a royal honour on the evening of Wednesday 25 March 2026. He was appointed Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau. Goirle mayor Mark van Stappershoef presented the award to him during a themed evening of the Goirle First Aid Association at the Jan van Besouw cultural centre. Mr Zoontjens received the royal honour in recognition of his long-standing commitment to society and, in particular, to first aid.
Mr Zoontjens has been volunteering selflessly for society in Goirle for 50 years. Since 1976, he has been a volunteer at the De Rimboe sports field. He managed the site, organised tournaments for young and old, and maintained contacts with users. He also volunteered for many years at the Ice Club Het Bankven and at the holiday home of the Brothers in Goirle. In 1986, at the age of 50, he obtained his first aid diploma and became a member of EHBO Goirle. Since then, he has made an exceptional contribution to the association and its members. For 30 years, he has been a board member. He is a bandager, instructor and provides education at primary schools in Goirle. Even now, at the age of 90, Mr Zoontjens remains an active volunteer with EHBO Goirle. He is present at the first aid post at almost every event in our municipality.
His commitment at such an advanced age is a testament to his great loyalty to society. His appointment as Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau is an honour for his valuable volunteer work.