SARASOTA – Early Sunday afternoon Dutch officials honor two brave World War II prisoners of war. Private Ferdinand Leunissen and his son Sailor Charles Leunissen both received distinguished medals for their service and sacrifice.
“I can’t believe it myself really it’s like a dream come true…. they have just honored my grandfather and my father in a way I never even imagined,” said Nancy Leunissen, daughter of WWII veteran.
For the past 20 years Nancy has been searching for evidence in order to have her father recognized by the Dutch Army for his bravery. He was captured and held as POW for nearly 3 years.
“I was obsessed, I mean it was an obsession of mine. My kids thought I was crazy, my family thought I was crazy there was something inside of me and I just had to do it,” said Nancy.
According to Dutch officials Charles had received the War Commemorative Cross in 1946, but his family had never received it. Colonel Paul Elverding presented the family with the two commemorative medals to officially honor the two brave soldiers.
“It just was everything I wanted, but never really thought would happen. And once I see the colonel talking about my grandfather and my father it just got so emotional, I… I was so proud,” said Nancy.
Nancy’s grandfather was awarded the Mobilization War Cross after he and nearly 6,000 men were killed when their ship was attacked. She said that she never gave up hope in honoring her family’s sacrifice.
“I think it’s just something in our family, just like when my dad and grandfather were POW’s. We get determined, we get something in our head and we don’t stop,” said Nancy.
