It was just after D-Day when the 21-ton diesel locomotive was delivered by ship to the beach in French Normandy by the Allies. The train subsequently played an important role in the liberation of the Netherlands. “This locomotive supplied the troops that were fighting”, says Hans Altena of Stichting 162. “The train thus played a crucial role in the liberation.”
The English-made diesel locomotive played a role in the liberation – NH Nieuws
According to Altena, the significance of diesel locomotives like this has always been somewhat underexposed. “Many people don’t know the story, which is why we at Foundation 162 also call it a forgotten chapter. Without logistical operation, no action,” says the train enthusiast. “Logistics may not be the most imaginative aspect of the liberation, but it has been materially essential nonetheless.”
After the war, the locomotive was put into service by the NS, which eventually scrapped the train set, which had been manufactured in England in 1941. It is in 1997 when Stichting 162 gets their sights on the diesel locomotive and the members completely refurbish it. According to Altena, the train is now back in factory condition and running like a charm again. The locomotive can be seen in the Dutch Transport Museum in Nieuw-Vennep.