Velp Monument Lt Files
The memorial comprises a four-meter-high statue in wrought iron. A stylized eagle, flying northeast toward Grave city center, forms the cupola of a parachute joined by suspension lines down to a four-sided pyramid-form base.
Monument honours 1st Lieutenant Hanford A. Files, who was killed at the site on September 17, 1944, during Operation Market Garden. Designed by Dutch artist Joshua Pennings, the statue stands as a lasting tribute to the paratroopers who fought for the freedom of Europe during World War II. U.S. and Allied officials unveiled the monument on September 16, 2025.
Hanford A. Files was born on November 17, 1920, in Wahkonsa Township, Webster County, Iowa. He was the son of James R. Files and Anna L. Files, and brother of Gordon L. Files, Mary N. Files, and Roger B. Files. He graduated from the University of California in 1942, shortly before entering military service.
He entered active duty on September 23, 1942, and served in E Company of the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division. As an officer, he participated in Operation Market Garden. He was killed in action on September 17, 1944. For his courage and commitment, he received the Silver Star and posthumously the Purple Heart.
According to accounts, he led the main force of E Company as an "executive officer" to the hamlet of De Elft on Bosschebaan. A road block was set up there to stop an expected counter-attack from the south.
Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial Plot Plot K Row 9 Grave 20
