Remembering the liberation of Bergen-Belsen

Today (Wednesday) marks the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Bergen-Belsen by British Forces.

On April 15, 1945, British troops from the 11th Armoured Division entered the Nazi concentration camp Bergen-Belsen and liberated over 50,000 prisoners.

British soldiers, doctors, nurses and relief workers supported and nursed those who survived, many of whom made a home in the UK.

As survivors and liberators become older, the 75th anniversary marks a significant milestone in Holocaust remembrance.

The story of Bergen-Belsen is a British story, and one that our country should know and remember. It is for this reason, that the Holocaust Educational Trust has been educating young people, and the public, not all only about what happened there, but crucially, about Britain’s role in the liberation of this Nazi camp.

Karen Pollock MBE, Chief Executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust, said: "In marking this important anniversary, we remember the thousands who suffered at Bergen-Belsen, and the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust.

"But, at the same time, we also remember and celebrate the British troops whose heroic actions saved so many, including some of the inspirational survivors we are so lucky to work with to ensure that the lessons of the Holocaust are never forgotten.

"As the Holocaust moves from living history to just history, it is essential that we continue our work in educating about the Holocaust, its contemporary relevance and repeatedly share the stories of the eyewitnesses - as this is our story." 

Susan Pollack MBE, a survivor who was liberated at Bergen-Belsen and who also survived Auschwitz-Birkenau, said: "The conditions in Belsen were horrific beyond belief and many of those liberated died shortly after that day.

"But I will never forget the kindness of the British soldier who picked me up off the ground put me on a stretcher – he was a beacon of light in an uncertain future and this marked the beginning of a new life.

"It was because of people like him and so many others that I survived and am able to share my testimony. I am proud to call Britain my home and am forever grateful." 

High Peak MP Robert Largan said: "We must never forget the horror of what happened at Bergen-Belsen and the sacrifice of those who fought to liberate it. I am proud to support the Holocaust Educational Trust and the important work that they do." 

Main image: 

John Hajdu MBE, a survivor of the holocaust, with High Peak MP Robert Largan at a Holocaust Memorial Day event earlier this year.