Their Story – Dutch stories that matter

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.

Holland’s Hidden Heroes Podcast

Lilian and her 12-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 long journey home

Eight children, aged 8 to 13, from St. Augustine’s Junior School in Peterborough, UK, have come together to honour the story of Wellington bomber HE346. The aircraft came down in the Netherlands during the Second World War and was recovered in 2024.

Through their digital magazine, these young students have ensured that the memory of its crew will live on and be passed to future generations

Koos van der Schaïk, between friend and foe

She ended up at Hell’s Highway in the Netherlands during WWII, but inside the hospital, Dutch nurse Koos faced a different battle. As a Red Cross nurse, she treated both Allied and German wounded, working alongside German medical staff — once her country’s oppressors — and asking herself: who is friend, and who is foe?

Through courage and compassion, Koos saved countless lives, proving that even in war, humanity can endure.

Ger van der Weerd, the long road to freedom

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

ATA girl Ida Veldhuyzen van Zanten

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

The remarkable life of Trix Terwindt

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.