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The liberation of Borssele
The province of Zealand and Flanders play a key role at the end of World War II. From September 4 until November 8 1944 the Battle for the Scheldt takes place with the objective to open up the ports of Antwerp for the Allied war effort. After the successful landing of the Scottish brigades in Baarland and Hoedekenskerke, the Allies advance towards Ellewoutsdijk and Borssele.
During the Second World War, the coastline of Zuid-Beveland was part of the Atlantic Wall. In the (then) municipality of Borssele 46 defense works were built. Most were in the dyke at the so-called Hoek van Borssele (Stützpunkt Blücher). In and around the Berg van Troje (Troy's Mountain) five bunkers appeared, including a hospital bunker. The remaining batteries were located in the Van Citterspolder and in Ellewoutsdijk.
After the landings at Baarland and Hoedekenskerke in October 1944, the Allies moved towards the village of Borssele. Twelve Allied soldiers were killed. On October 30, after suffering extensive damage, the village was liberated. Seven civilians lost their lives.
Visit the Zeeuwse Ankers website (Zeeland Anchors) for comprehensive information, personal stories and videos about the Battle of the Scheldt.