On November 10th, it will be exactly one hundred years since the foundations were laid for what is now the Royal National Veterans Association Torhout. Since 1926, the association has been dedicated to supporting war victims and preserving the memory of those who fought for freedom and peace. Since 1931, this work has been carried out in close cooperation with the Local Authority of Torhout.
Rather than a large-scale celebration, the renewed N.S.B. Torhout and the Local Authority of Torhout have consciously opted for a meaningful moment of remembrance. Through a modest ceremony, poetry recited by city poet Dirk De Bosschere, and the lighting of candles, they aim to give forgotten war victims, former combatants, and veterans a place in the collective memory once more.
The commemoration will take place on the eve of Armistice Day, Tuesday, November 10th, at 6:30 PM at the main entrance of VIVES Torhout, Sint-Jozefstraat 1. The focus is on individuals from Torhout who have faded into obscurity over the years, including war victims, members of the Flemish Veterans Association, Socialist Veterans, Fire Cross recipients, and political prisoners. Everyone is welcome to reflect on these often-forgotten stories and keep their memory alive. A warm cup of soup will be offered to all attendees afterwards.
The N.S.B. Torhout is also appealing to residents who may have photographs, documents, or other historical materials concerning former combatant associations or veterans from Torhout. The association intends to collect this information for a future exhibition on local war heritage. Those wishing to share materials or obtain more information can contact Oorlogsgetuigentorhout@gmail.com.
