Second World War On 2 October 1944, at the beginning of the
Battle of the Scheldt (2 October-8 November 1944), the Canadian 2nd Division began its advance north from Antwerp. Stiff fighting at Woensdrecht ensued on 6 October, the objective of the first phase. The Germans, reinforced by Battle Group Chill, saw the priority in holding there, controlling direct access to
South Beveland and
Walcheren Island. There were heavy casualties as the Canadians attacked over open, flooded land. Driving rain, booby traps and land mines made the advance very difficult. On 13 October, what would come to be known as "Black Friday", the
Canadian 5th Infantry Brigade's
Black Watch was virtually wiped out in an unsuccessful attack. The
Calgary Highlanders were to follow up with a more successful action, and their Carrier Platoon succeeded in taking the rail station at
Korteven. Heavy fighting at Hoogerheide also ensued, but by 16 October, Woensdrecht was secured, cutting the land link to South Beveland and Walcheren. The Canadians were successful in completing their objective. After that the Buffaloes, ground forces dedicating to causing as much impact to the enemy troops during the barrage, secured the Breskens pocket on the north side of the
Scheldt river.
Cold War era In 1983, it was decided that the United States would station 48
nuclear armed cruise missiles at the air base in the district, unless the USSR reduced their number of
SS-20 missiles to 378. Since the number was still higher in 1985, stationing was to proceed. Among the Dutch population there was
protest against this. The plan was cancelled in 1987 due to the
Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. == Population centres ==