321_ijzendijke_1_.jpg

IJzendijke

On October 16, the Canadian regiment, the Queen's Own Rifles, takes up positions in the Groote Jonkvrouw polder, east of IJzendijke. At first, they launch a frontal assault in battalion strength, but this is soon cancelled because of problems in implementation and support. However, there is heavy artillery fire. On October 17, at 9:00 pm, the Canadians launch their attack. However, the remaining German soldiers offer fierce resistance. Every street and every house must be fought for, even by hand-to-hand combat with bayonets. Nevertheless, the Canadians manage to liberate the eastern part of IJzendijke. In the afternoon, the Germans react with shelling from the west, causing large fires. The next day, the Canadians manage to take the western part of the city as well. IJzendijke is badly battered by the fighting. There are dozens of deaths to be mourned. Around 200 buildings are destroyed.Visit the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.zeeuwseankers.nl/en/story/battle-of-the-schelde">Zeeuwse Ankers</a> website (Zeeland Anchors) for comprehensive information, personal stories and videos about the Battle of the Scheldt.&nbsp;

Die Befreiung von IJzendijke