Gerrie Enninga (69) and Annie Enninga-de Haas (64) from Klazienaveen were appointed Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau this afternoon. Buck mayor Eric van Oosterhout was on the final day of the Kite Festival to pin the awards.
Gerrie and Annie Enninga are the founders of the Vliegerfestival, which now attracts 15,000 to 20,000 visitors annually. 35 years ago, the festival was first held on the Es in Emmen. The festival was later moved to the Grote Rietplas, where it has grown into a multi-day event.
Together with the volunteers, the couple organizes many different activities and they are the driving force behind the festival. Participants come from all over Europe and beyond. In addition to the many kite activities, there is also a puppet theater, face painting for children and live music. Every year, the organization sets up a temporary campsite for the participants.