Monument to the Franken brothers

Horsestraat 12

6591 MA

Milsbeek

www.hartvanlimburg.nl

Route

War memorials

In September 1944, Milsbeek came dangerously close to the front and the Germans forced the residents to evacuate. After their departure, the empty houses were looted and the occupiers laid landmines. On February 8, 1945, the British and Canadians launched an offensive to conquer the area and a week later, Milsbeek was liberated. In the spring, residents returned home and found a chaotic situation with still many landmines and explosives. The Franken brothers, Grad, Chris, and Huub, were killed while clearing rubble around their farm.

Monument to the Franken brothers

After the liberation of North and Central Limburg, landmines and explosives were still found in the ground, which resulted in many civilian deaths. Upon returning to their home, a family from Milsbeek discovered a hand grenade connected to the water pump in the kitchen, resulting in a heavy explosion that killed four family members. Knowledge of explosives was crucial, and a barber from Gennep discovered a mine under a leather barber's chair. Upon returning to their hometown, the driver of a truck stepped on a landmine, killing him instantly and severely injuring the passengers. A group of boys from Gennep played soccer on a minefield for weeks until they were reprimanded by passing Scottish soldiers. The lack of knowledge and carelessness resulted in many deadly accidents.

Ommetje Hiking Trail

Ommetje Gennep 9,2 Km Hiking Trail Limburg. Discover the WWII sights of Gennep and Limburg during a hiking trail along the Martinus Tower, Ellen Hoffmann Square, Highlander Bridge, and more.