We are proud of our colleague Pieter van den Boomen. Always active and full of ideas, whether it concerns work, private life or his activities for veterans. For example, he founded a platform in Bladel where veterans can meet each other. Not to be visible as a veteran, but to share experiences and possibly help veterans out of their isolation. He has therefore made it to the shortlist of top 15 nominations for the Witte Anjer (White Carnation).

The Witte Anjer is an award intended for people who play a special role in the lives of veterans and is a symbol of appreciation for all Dutch veterans. “The mere fact that I have been nominated for this is an award in itself. When I finished my job at the ministry of Defence I dedicated my time to work for veterans. People often have the image that veterans are old, stuffy people, but I also meet people in their twenties who have been through a lot. I would like veterans to have a face and hope that our foundation can help achieve this.” “Puur het feit dat ik hiervoor genomineerd ben is al een prijs op zich. Toen ik klaar was bij Defensie kreeg ik tijd om mij voor veteranen in te zetten. Mensen hebben vaak het beeld dat veteranen oude, stoffige mensen zijn, maar ik heb hier ook twintigers rondlopen die ook al heel wat hebben meegemaakt. Ik wil graag dat alle veteranen een gezicht krijgen en hoop dat onze stichting kan helpen.”

Read his story on the Veterans Day website.