On May 10, 1940 the war broke out, Amersfoort was in the middle of the inundation area. Reasons abound for the people to evacuate to Alkmaar, a town in the north of Holland. Trains were deployed to transport the people, it was also anxious for the animals which had to be abandoned. Cycles should not be included, so father decided to cycle from Amersfoort via Amsterdam to Alkmaar with us (children). In Amsterdam, we quickly went to visit the mother of our quartered lieutenant, to bring her greetings and the last messages of her son. Then we went on to Alkmaar. We came to stay with very friendly and caring people, who did everything to make our stay as pleasant as possible.

On May 15, 1940, we could return home, because the Netherlands had capitulated.  The whole family went home by train. But in what condition would we find Amersfoort and our house? Fortunately Amersfoort had been spared. The impressions and the tension I have clearly experienced as a child and never forget.  The huge crowd around the station of Alkmaar, the worrying people, waiting for the train, fatigue and uncertainty under which all people were suffering was clearly noticeable. All this was just the beginning of the misery that would last 5 years, and would have a fatal end for our family and many friends.

*See the book: Amersfoort "40-"45 door J.L. Bloemhof, uitgeverij Bekking, Amersfoort.