By The Indo Project
Every year on August 15, we commemorate the official end of World War II for the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
What Do We Commemorate on August 15?
On this day in 1945, the capitulation of Japan finally brought an end to the brutal occupation of the Dutch East Indies. For decades after WWII, the unique sacrifices of those who suffered in the East were deeply overshadowed by the liberation of mainland Europe in May 1945.
It is a day of Herdenking (remembrance) dedicated to all victims of the Japanese occupation of the Dutch East Indies and its direct consequences.
While this day remains a massive, nationally recognized event in the Netherlands, it is also kept alive in select areas across the United States.
Why Did the Commemorations Begin
The official tradition of the August 15 commemoration didn’t just happen; it was forged in The Hague by survivors like At Vrijburg and Gerrie Koopmans, who demanded the nation pay its “debt of honor” (ereschuld). What started as a singular landmark gathering in 1970 eventually grew into the enduring national tradition we know today.
Read the full story: Fulfilling a Debt of Honor: The History of the August 15 Commemoration
In the Netherlands: The Center of Remembrance
In the Netherlands, August 15 has grown into a major national event (Nationale Herdenking 15 Augustus 1945) centered around the Indisch Monument in The Hague, alongside significant regional ceremonies in cities like Amsterdam.
Since its inception, The Indo Project has participated annually in two of the Netherlands’ most significant annual commemorations: the National Remembrance at Dam Square in Amsterdam and the Indisch Monument in The Hague. In solidarity with the thousands who gather each year to honor the victims and survivors of World War II in the former Dutch East Indies, we lay a wreath and a bouquet bearing a ribbon inscribed “On Behalf of All Indos Worldwide.” Through this simple yet meaningful gesture, we honor the memory of those who suffered, sacrificed, and lost their lives, while reaffirming our commitment to preserving their legacy for future generations.
Explore our first-hand dispatches, photo galleries, and updates from our delegations at the Dutch commemorations over the recent years:
In the United States: Cultivating the Legacy
While August 15 is observed in few places outside of the Netherlands, The Indo Project is dedicated to keeping this vital piece of heritage alive for the American diaspora. Our main focal point of remembrance and commemoration takes place annually in Southern California, bringing the community together to honor our ancestors’ resilience.
Join Our Next Gathering: Find event details and ticketing of our signature American event: Commemoration and Liberation Ball 2026 in Southern California.
It would be wonderful if a camera could be set up to provide a live feed during the event so people, who could not attend, could log in and watch the evening program.
Or possibly provide a YouTube post where we can watch the event at one’s convenience.