On May 5th, the latest addition to the Liberation Route Brabant network was launched: the Timberwolves Cycling Route. This 91-kilometre route leads cyclists through historical locations across West Brabant that played a key role during the region’s liberation in the Second World War.
Developed as part of Brabant Herinnert‘s ongoing efforts to bring wartime stories to life and to pass on the memory of the Second World War to future generations, the route was made possible thanks to the support of Brabant Partners and the collaboration with the municipalities of Etten-Leur, Halderberge, Moerdijk, Rucphen, and Zundert.
The cycling route is named after the 104th Infantry Division of the United States Army, nicknamed the Timberwolves. The division played a crucial role in liberating West Brabant from German occupation. Operating with professionalism under Canadian command, the Timberwolves’ involvement was a rare example of international cooperation in military history.
Between October and November 1944, the Timberwolves faced fierce combat in towns such as Zundert, Wernhout, Achtmaal, and Standdaarbuiten. Around 170 young American soldiers lost their lives in the effort to free the region. The Timberwolves Cycling Route pays tribute to their legacy and to the exceptional acts of bravery displayed by many. The words of their commander, General Terry Allen, still echo today: “Nothing in hell can stop the Timberwolves.”
The cycling route is the tenth route in the Liberation Route Brabant network. “With the launch of the Timberwolves Cycling Route, the liberation story of West Brabant gains more depth and coherence,” says Caroline Belt, programme director of Brabant Herinnert. “The cooperation of different nationalities under one flag, the perseverance of the often young soldiers – these are inspiring stories that, through this route, are given a strong place in the landscape and in the broader narrative of Brabant’s liberation.”
The Timberwolves Cycling Route is divided in two loops: North (44 km) and South (52 km) and is integrated into the North Brabant cycling junction network. The route is suitable for both recreational and history-minded cyclists, combining beautiful landscapes with stories of heroism, hardship and liberation.
