The Convoy of Liberty passed through Pilsen, liberation celebrations attracted tens of thousands of people

Tens of thousands of people filled the streets of Pilsen over the weekend to commemorate the anniversary of the city's liberation and pay tribute to American and Belgian veterans. The traditional Convoy of Liberty once again attracted crowds of spectators.

The convoy was led by historic military equipment, including iconic tanks, and was also attended by direct participants in the battles of World War II – veterans Gideon Kantor and Joseph Thurmond, who participated in the liberation of southwestern Bohemia 81 years ago. In total, around 300 pieces of historic military vehicles passed through the city.

On this occasion, the Mayor of Pilsen, Roman Zarzycký, appreciated the participation of veterans and their families and also thanked the military history clubs, without whose long-term work the event would not have been possible. The column symbolically commemorated the advance of the 16th Armored Division of the American Army, whose units entered Pilsen on May 6, 1945. Spectators could see, for example, Sherman tanks or the Jackson tank destroyer. Veterans and then descendants of American soldiers who participated in the liberation of the city, as well as family members of Belgian veterans, rode behind them.

The convoy left Sukova Street in Bory and headed towards the city center via Klatovská třída. Thousands of people lined the entire route, welcoming the participants with applause and enthusiastic reactions. The atmosphere was also enhanced by historic airplanes that flew over the city. The liberation celebrations will culminate on Wednesday, May 6, with a traditional memorial service at the Thank You, America! monument.