Nazi Germany and Dutch and Belgian Volunteers

During World War II, the German military's encounters with Dutch and Belgian soldiers were significantly influenced by their respective preparedness, equipment, and the nature of their volunteering or conscription. This article explores the perspectives and experiences of German troops, particularly focusing on the performance of Dutch and Belgian volunteers in the Waffen SS and the reaction of German forces to their surrender.

German Perspective on Dutch Soldiers

During the German invasion of the Netherlands, the German Panzer troops likely were not overly impressed. The Dutch army lacked effective anti-tank capabilities, making it a formidable challenge for German tanks. Paratroopers, while initially optimistic, encountered significant resistance and were usually eliminated within a short time. The failure to capture Dutch airports and bridges further highlighted the inadequacy of the Dutch defense.

Volunteers in the Waffen SS: Dutch and Belgian Efforts

While the Dutch and Belgian militaries faced difficult circumstances, a significant number of individuals volunteered for service in the Waffen SS, the elite combat branch of the Wehrmacht. Notable among these was the 5th SS Division 'Viking', predominantly composed of Dutch and Flemish volunteers. This division was recognized for its commendable performance on the Eastern Front, showcasing the bravery and dedication of its members.

The Wallon Division, commanded by Leon Degrelle, was another significant formation within the Waffen SS. Degrelle, one of the war’s most decorated non-Germans, played a crucial role in the volunteer efforts. These units, representing a small minority of the armed forces during World War II, performed at a level comparable to German units, indicating the willingness and capability of these volunteers to fight alongside their German counterparts.

Resistance and Surrender

Despite efforts, the Dutch were overwhelmingly compelled to surrender after only five days of the German invasion. The majority of the Dutch army was under-prepared, with outdated equipment and limited resources. Their resistance was significant, as they provided substantial intelligence to the British government and utilized a considerable number of German Gestapo and a high-ranking Waffen SS official.

The Belgians, while shorter in number, managed to hold out for 18 days. Their tenacity, along with that of their British and French allies, challenged the German forces before the conflict became unsustainable. Many Belgian soldiers were cut off by the Germans and subsequently surrendered just before the evacuation at Dunkirk. Approximately two thousand Belgians managed to escape to Britain, where they were reformed and went on to serve in the SAS and Royal Air Force.

Overall, the Germans did not engage with a large number of Dutch and Belgian soldiers, primarily due to their countries' surrenders or the relatively small number of volunteers. However, the contributions and bravery of those who served under the Waffen SS were notable and significant to the overall war effort.

Conclusion

The experiences of Dutch and Belgian soldiers during World War II highlight the complex interplay between resistance, surrender, and the recruitment of volunteers by the German military. While the majority of countries in the region fell quickly, those who chose or were compelled to fight did so with honor and distinction. This article provides insights into their experiences and the responses of the German military to these encounters.