Remembrance of the Death on May 4, 2025
ORANJESTAD—As in previous years, the fallen during World War II (1939-1945) were commemorated in the Kingdom on May 4, during the National Remembrance of the Dead.
During this terrible war, Arubans also lost their lives. The most well-known was Boy Ecury, who died in the Netherlands; other Arubans also perished in this conflict in Europe and Aruba.
With more than 70 million casualties and more than 60 participating nations, the Second World War is the largest and deadliest in both Europe and Aruba.
In Aruba, the commemoration consisted of a prayer by a military clergyman, a wreath-laying by the Governor, a speech by the Prime Minister, and wreath-laying on behalf of surviving relatives and veterans, Parliament, the Council of Ministers, the Representation of the Netherlands in Oranjestad, the crew and personnel of the Marine Barracks Savaneta, and the youth of Aruba.
This program was held at the square on the A. Lacle Boulevard.
Prime Minister Mike Eman, during his speech, called for a renewal of unity and to put universal human values at the center in response to the threats of these times.
"It is not weapons that protect us," Premier Eman remarked, "but the virtues we share: faith, hope, and love.
He also focused on the suffering of the Jewish people, with a personal memory of his mother and a dear family friend, Mrs. Engels, better known as Tante Jet—a survivor of the Holocaust. "On her arm was a number, which tried to take away her humanity. But she was worth much more than that. She was full of love, brave, and lived her life with gratitude."
On behalf of the Government of Aruba, Premier Eman expressed his great gratitude to all those who fought for the freedom of Aruba and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, especially to the family of resistance hero Boy Ecury and to the representative of Camarada Aruba and Schutterij Arubano.
He also addressed the younger generation directly:
"You are the guardians of tomorrow. Do not let cynicism or indifference harden your heart. Stay cordial with each other despite difficult circumstances. You carry the light inside. Not only in words but in actions."
The speech culminated with a strong call for moral renewal:
"Let us choose again for good. For what makes us human. For the strength of love to come over fear—and for the trust that together we can make a better world."