Wageningen45 (National Committee for the Commemoration of the 1945 Capitulations)
How can you convey, through film, the emotional impact and cross-generational connection of a moment in which a resistance hero receives a personal letter of gratitude from a teenager?
Commissioned by the Province of Gelderland, the Municipality of Wageningen, the National Committee for 4 and 5 May, and Wageningen45, XSAGA was responsible for the organization and execution of the National Opening of Liberation Day 2025. This commemorative day featured a special program including the National Commemoration of the 1945 Capitulations, a renewed and impressive Liberation Day Parade, and the 5 May Lecture, which was delivered this year by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
XSAGA Video produced a series of compelling films that strengthened the context and emotional experience of the day. One of the most moving elements was the Wageningen45 Letters Initiative: a project in which teenagers write personal letters to Dutch veterans or resistance fighters. In these letters, they express their gratitude for their efforts during the Second World War and for the freedom that was made possible for future generations.The letters visibly touched the people portrayed and highlighted the powerful connection between young and old, past and present.
The television broadcast was aired live by NOS and is available to watch again via NPO Start.
