Hoe de liquidatie van Rijkswaterstaatmedewerkers bij de Westsluis in Terneuzen in 1944 een plek krijgt in de herinneringscultuur

Abstract

The liquidation of Rijkswaterstaat employees at the Westsluis in Terneuzen on 5 September 1944 has had a lasting impact on the culture of remembrance of both Rijkswaterstaat and the inhabitants of Terneuzen. Analysis of eyewitness accounts, the war memorial and contemporary remembrance activities show how collective memories are formed and maintained. Although some remembrance activities are still one-sided, participatory projects demonstrate the value of an interactive approach. The evaluation of these remembrance activities leads to important insights for the further development of a vibrant culture of remembrance within Rijkswaterstaat. As a researcher and employee of Rijkswaterstaat, the author has access to information sources and is an active part of the culture of remembrance within the organisation. Her professional background enables her to understand the processes of remembrance from different perspectives and to share her insights in this article. This experience shows that Rijkswaterstaat can keep its history alive by celebrating heroic deeds, such as those described in the story in this article. In addition, acknowledging the dark chapters, such as the role of chief engineer Anton Mussert, is also an important part of the culture of remembrance. In order to keep our memories alive, it is essential that we critically reflect on the past and continue to actively ask new questions.