Just a great WW2 relic that gives you a smile.... An authentic hand-painted Dutch liberation commemorative panel, created shortly after the liberation of the Netherlands on 5 May 1945. Executed on a wooden panel (approx. 14 × 14 cm), it depicts a smiling British "Tommy" alongside the crossed flags of the United Kingdom and the United States. The handwritten inscription "Thank You Boys – 5 May 1945" commemorates the official surrender of German forces in the Netherlands and the end of the Second World War. The phrase "Thank You Boys" became an iconic expression of gratitude used by the Dutch population to honour the Allied liberators. During the final days of the war and the food relief missions of Operation Manna, these words famously appeared on fields, rooftops and roads, painted in giant letters so they could be read by Allied aircrews from above. Small hand-painted souvenirs such as this were produced as pieces of folk art and served as personal mementoes celebrating the return of freedom. Because they were individually made rather than commercially manufactured, surviving examples are relatively uncommon. The panel remains in excellent original condition, displaying an attractive natural patina consistent with its age. Dimensions Approx. 14 × 14 cm A charming and highly collectible piece of Dutch Second World War history, ideal for collectors of WWII memorabilia, liberation artefacts and historical folk art.