Other Forces

Symbol of her Nation.

US Government (Library of Congress)

Wilhelmina, queen regnant of the Netherlands, a formal portrait 'photo made during her exile in Britain (? 1942). When the German invasion began on 10 May 1940, the queen attempted to relocate from Den Haag to Zeeland to co-ordinate resistance in "Fortress Holland", but heavy German attacks in that province prevented this. Instead, she accepted the offer of sanctuary in England, sailing there on the British warship, HMS Hereward. While in exile, she faced down defeatist elements in the Dutch government in exile, remaining steadfastly committed to restoring the unconditional liberty of the Netherlands. She made regular broadcasts to her country through "Radio Orange"; German prohibition on receiving these broadcasts had little effect. When she returned to the Netherlands (before the whole country had actually been liberated) she was warmly received by her people and, in spite of declining health, worked in the immediate aftermath to promote the recovery of her country. A strong, determined and principled woman who was a true descendant of her Orange-Nassau ancestors, anybody who wonders about the respect with which the Dutch royal family is still shown in the Netherlands - in spite of some serious problems over the years - need look no further than this lady. Best regards, JR.