16 December 1944, the horror of "The Rex"...
As a guide at the bunker museum, I regularly ask if anyone in the group knows what happened in the city on 16 December 1944. Although, understandably, many people do not know the date of this impact, one usually only has to say the word ‘cinema’ to quickly get the answer “Rex”. Especially in Antwerp, but also far beyond, ‘De Rex’ became a household name, the bloody climax of the 6 months in which Antwerp was the main target of the German V-weapons.
Like last year, but now exactly 81 years after the impact, a commemoration will be held.
Last year's announcement with additional information and interesting links can be found by clicking here or here for an article on the event.
This year, once again, a number of historians and interested parties do not want to let this sad day in Antwerp's history pass unnoticed and are inviting everyone to join them in commemorating it.
During this ceremony, we pay tribute to the 567 victims who lost their lives. in one of the most tragic events in our city during the Second World War. We reflect on their suffering and on the enduring need for peace, to cherish tolerance and humanity.”
Date: Tuesday 16 December
Start: 15:00
Location: Entrance UGC Cinema – De Keyserlei.
Program:
• Welcome by Koen Palinckx.
Historian and author of “Antwerpen onder de
V-Bommen 1944-1945”.
• Speeches:
o Herman Wilpshaar.
Coordinator Erfgoed, Stichting Memory
Vrijheidsmuseum, Nijverdal – NL.
o Representative City of Antwerp.
• Musical intermezzo’s
• Flowers and moment of silence
If you or your organisation would like to lay flowers or a wreath, please let us or AntwerpX know.
