Some historic events should never be forgotten. They define us, remind us of who we are as society and what we stand for. Our modern values grew from them. Passing these stories on to the next generation is essential. They reveal how small actions can spark big changes — and how right and wrong sometimes go hand in hand. Giving us a deeper understanding of today’s society and inspiring us to build a better future.
History is more than dates and facts. It’s the personal stories that leave a lasting mark. At Their Story, we share these powerful Dutch stories — from iconic figures to unsung allied heroes — shining a light on the people who shaped the Netherlands in extraordinary ways.
Explore their stories below, and discover even more through our Holland’s Hidden Heroes podcast, made for kids and families worldwide.
Lilian and her 11-year-old co-host Colin, two Dutchies, share true, inspiring stories from Dutch history with kids and families worldwide.
From Dutch icons to allied heroes, Lilian and Colin shine a light on the people who shaped Netherlands' history in extraordinary ways.
The Red Cross demands neutrality, but how do you uphold it when your own country is occupied by Nazis? Koos, a Dutch Red Cross nurse, faced this dilemma. Torn between love for her homeland and professional neutrality, she risked her life to care for Allies and enemies.
During WW2 an engineer from KLM flees to Britain to work for MI9. He’s parachuted back into the Netherlands where he sets up a pilot escape line. He gets help from his future wife Tineke, a Dutch resistance fighter.
No3 The England Voyagers of the Royal Dutch Airlines
A KLM air hostess escaped the occupied Netherlands during ww2 and went to Britain. Most women ended up in an office job as a host, secretary or work in administration. But Ida became a pilot for the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA).
No2 The England Voyagers of the Royal Dutch Airlines
Trix became one of the first Dutch air hostesses in 1937. Here she enjoyed an adventurous life. When WW2 broke out the Netherlands were occupied. Trix managed to flee to Britain, where she was recruited by Captain Airey Neave from MI9.
No1 The England Voyagers of the Royal Dutch Airlines.
I was a guest on the Unconventional Soldier Podcast to share the story of the recovery of the Stirling BK716 in the Netherlands and the importance of the Dutch aircraft recovery programme. We also discuss the Dutch remembrance culture and how the WW2 sacrifices are still relevant today.