International Meeting "Tanks in Town"
In the framework of our extensive research, we continuously meet new people, who become good friends.
While researching the history of the 89th US Infantry Division and the Belgian 16th Fusilier Battalion, we received an invitation for an international meeting, called "Tanks in Town". This event took place in the town of Mons from the 25th until the 27th August.
After a warm welcome and briefing, we were invited to participate at the upcoming parade of around 150 military old-timers. We gladly accepted this offer and found ourselves to our amazement some time later in the middle on one of the biggest international meetings of tracked vehicles, motorbikes, tanks and wheeled vehicles.
As participants came from all over Europe, I had the opportunity to join Thierry, who came from France with his Halftrack. Even when not always understanding, it became a very impressive adventure. The three men inside the Halftrack really enjoyed this and even a technical problem with the front tire was cleared in the shortest of time. Especially the wholehearted reception by the thousands of people, when the long column of vehicles to the towns and cities passed, was great. Even after 61 years, you could clearly feel the atmosphere around those, which had witnessed the liberation.
Among the large crowds along the road, especially the elderly showed a high enthusiasm. They waved hands and poured out drinks. Their natural joy, when seeing these vehicles and the people in original uniforms on them, impressed me very much. These older people hat lived through the horrors of war and had not forgotten those who liberated them, even until today.
Interesting to know is that this event is one of the biggest in Europa. The Walloon Minister President greeted them personally when they arrived at the center of Mons, between huge crowds. Another highlight was setting a new record for the Guinness Book of Records, since the organizers were able to mount the largest collection of military Harley Davidson bikes from the Second World War.
More information on:
>> www.tanksintown.be
