The war monument (oorlogsmonument) in Appingedam stands as a poignant reminder of the profound sacrifices made by war victims during the years of occupation, all in the pursuit of securing a life lived in freedom.
In April 1945, a significant turning point in the history of Appingedam occurred. Canadian troops, specifically the 'Royal Winnipeg Rifle Regiment,' entered the town as part of the broader Allied advance into the province of Groningen. This was a time when the liberation of the province was unfolding on multiple fronts: the borderlands between Musselkanaal and the Dollard, the city of Groningen itself, and the strategically vital 'Delfzijl bridgehead.'
Appingedam was encircled by inundations, with the only viable advance route being along the railway embankment due to the surrounding water. As the Canadians pushed into the town, they encountered fierce resistance from German naval personnel and engaged in street battles and intense artillery duels. Despite the perilous conditions, the determination of the Canadian infantry prevailed, and on April 23, 1945, more than a hundred Germans surrendered. Appingedam was finally liberated.
The 'bruggenhoofd Delfzijl' had been a formidable defense line, particularly due to the inundations that had submerged large parts of the region between Groningen and Delfzijl since September 1944. The Allies, recognizing the strategic importance of Delfzijl, approached it along two advance routes: from the north, traversing Hunsingo, and from the southeast, following the Duurswold Drainage Canal.
The unveiling of the monument in Appingedam took place in 1954, serving as a lasting testament to the town's resilience and the sacrifices made during those tumultuous times.
The monument is situated at the memorial site on Wijkstraat in Appingedam.
