This year, no veterans have come to Pilsen for the liberation celebrations. The reason is simple, health conditions no longer allow veterans to travel at such a venerable age. Symbolically, at least the relatives of the people who freed Pilsen will come to Pilsen.

Freedom celebrations will take place in Pilsen from May 5 to 8. With this event, Pilsen commemorates the events associated with the end of the Second World War and the liberation of the city by American soldiers. This year, for the first time, the celebrations will be without veterans. About how last year’s memorial service took place. Thank you, America! with the participation of veterans, you can watch HERE.

“The surviving war veterans are no longer fit to travel such long distances. However, they will be present at least in a symbolic way. Mr. George Thompson and Lincoln Harner film a toast to the people of Pilsen,” said Pilsen Mayor Roman Zarzycký.

George Thompson, who came to Pilsen for last year’s celebrations and celebrated his 98th birthday last October, will greet Pilsen residents from a distance.

Among other things, the speech will include: “Pilsen is my second home. I’ve always been closer to the Czech Republic than most Americans. I grew up in Kansas and my friends in high school were named Havel and Černý. All my friends in high school were from the Czech Republic. I never heard of they speak Czech but they are good friends of mine. As I mentioned, Pilsen is my second home. And because of that, if I were to move, Pilsen would be the obvious choice. Everyone here loves me and I love them .”

Veteran relatives will arrive in Pilsen this year

Among the guests from the US who promised to participate, for example, Dale Rieb – son-in-law George E ThompsonKathleen Lemmons Hoffman – daughter of a late veteran by Charles R. LemmonsTom Duncan – son of the deceased James H. DuncanMarc Cannizzo – son of the deceased John P. CannizzoJohn Del Santo – son of the deceased John Del Santothen the sons and daughters of the deceased Earl Ingramnamely Earl Ingram II and Judy Hicks.

Last year the traditional attendee, General GS Patton’s grandson, didn’t come to the party – George Patton Waters. But he should arrive in Pilsen this year.

The Belgian veterans will be represented by Luc Rensonnet – son of the deceased George Rensonnetand, sons and daughters of the deceased Louise Gihoula – Olivier and France Radoux, sons and grandsons of the deceased Valere Gustin – Valère and Rafael, Paul Gilain – son of the deceased – will also arrive Michel Gilain.

photo credit: QAP.cz