13,000 Gelderland veterans stand for peace, security, and freedom
Over the past year, we have frequently reflected in Gelderland on 80 years of freedom. The awareness of living in peace, security, and freedom is, especially in these times, not a given. The importance of pursuing peace and justice worldwide cannot be underestimated. In Gelderland, 13,000 veterans have been personally involved in peacekeeping, peace-enforcing, and/or observation missions. In doing so, they have made a meaningful contribution to the restoration of peace, security, and freedom.
Gelderland Deputy
Gelderland and Defense: a close bond over the years
Gelderland has a rich military tradition and a long-standing bond with Defense. With barracks and training grounds in, among others, the Veluwe, Defense is inextricably linked to Gelderland. Veterans hold a special place in Gelderland society. In Arnhems Bronbeek stands the oldest veterans home in the Netherlands.
First Gelderland veterans medals awarded at Bronbeek
On October 17, 2025, Commissioner of the King, Daniël Wigboldus, will be at the Royal Home for Former Military Personnel and Museum Bronbeek. He will present the first 100 Gelderland veterans medals there. For all other registered veterans in Gelderland, the aim is for them to receive the Gelderland veterans medal with an accompanying letter this autumn. No criteria have been established for the selection of the first 100 Gelderland veterans. We leave the choice to local veterans associations and military units.
On the front of the Gelderland veterans medal is the coat of arms of Gelderland. On the back, the province of Gelderland is depicted in contour line with De Zwaardschede in a V-shape, representing Veteran, Peace, and Security. The commemorative medal serves as a tangible recognition of the commitment of veterans to society.
For more information about the Gelderland veterans medal, you can contact the Provincial Desk.