VC9F Special Event station will be active from Haut-Saint-Antoine, Canada.
QRV on HF Bands.
QSL via VE9CF.
Information from QRZ page:
Operation Faust: A Lifeline in the Final Days of World War II
As World War II ended in Europe, the Netherlands faced a humanitarian disaster. After months of Nazi occupation, the Dutch population was on the brink of starvation, enduring what became known as the “Hunger Winter” of 1944-1945. Operation Faust emerged as a critical Allied mission in this desperate context, providing vital relief to thousands and marking a profound moment of hope in the war’s final days.
The Genesis of Operation Faust
Operation Faust was one of several coordinated Allied food relief efforts, alongside Operations Manna and Chowhound, launched in late April and early May 1945. While Manna and Chowhound famously involved air-dropping food supplies over occupied Dutch territory, Operation Faust was a ground-based mission.
On April 30, 1945, Allied forces negotiated a temporary truce with German occupiers, allowing a convoy of trucks loaded with food to cross enemy lines and deliver desperately needed provisions to the starving Dutch. These convoys from Allied-controlled areas brought flour, margarine, milk powder, and other essentials directly to distribution points in the western Netherlands.
The Impact of Operation Faust
Operation Faust played a crucial role in averting mass starvation in the Netherlands. The operation’s success depended on the cooperation between Allied and German commanders and the courage of Dutch relief workers who distributed supplies under dangerous conditions. The first truck convoys rolled out even before the formal German surrender, underscoring the urgency of the mission.
The impact was immediate and profound. For many Dutch citizens, the arrival of the food convoys symbolized liberation and the restoration of hope after years of deprivation. Operation Faust and the air-dropped supplies from Manna and Chowhound saved countless lives and remain a deeply cherished memory in Dutch history.
Operation Faust’s Legacy
Operation Faust stands as a testament to humanitarian action during conflict. It demonstrated the power of negotiation, compassion, and international cooperation, even in the final, chaotic days of war. The operation is remembered for its logistical achievement and moral significance—a reminder that humanity and mercy can prevail even in war.
80th Anniversary Commemoration
In May 2025, the 80th anniversary of Operation Faust is being honoured by the Atlantic Coast DX & Contest Group with the special event callsign VC9F. Throughout the month, amateur radio operators are activating this callsign to commemorate the operation’s legacy and to educate the public about its historical importance. This event connects the global amateur radio community with the enduring story of Operation Faust, ensuring that the memory of this lifesaving mission continues to inspire future generations.
As we mark this milestone, we remember the courage of those who risked everything to deliver hope to a starving nation, and we reaffirm the enduring value of compassion and international solidarity in times of crisis.
QRV on HF Bands.
QSL via VE9CF.
Information from QRZ page:
Operation Faust: A Lifeline in the Final Days of World War II
As World War II ended in Europe, the Netherlands faced a humanitarian disaster. After months of Nazi occupation, the Dutch population was on the brink of starvation, enduring what became known as the “Hunger Winter” of 1944-1945. Operation Faust emerged as a critical Allied mission in this desperate context, providing vital relief to thousands and marking a profound moment of hope in the war’s final days.
The Genesis of Operation Faust
Operation Faust was one of several coordinated Allied food relief efforts, alongside Operations Manna and Chowhound, launched in late April and early May 1945. While Manna and Chowhound famously involved air-dropping food supplies over occupied Dutch territory, Operation Faust was a ground-based mission.
On April 30, 1945, Allied forces negotiated a temporary truce with German occupiers, allowing a convoy of trucks loaded with food to cross enemy lines and deliver desperately needed provisions to the starving Dutch. These convoys from Allied-controlled areas brought flour, margarine, milk powder, and other essentials directly to distribution points in the western Netherlands.
The Impact of Operation Faust
Operation Faust played a crucial role in averting mass starvation in the Netherlands. The operation’s success depended on the cooperation between Allied and German commanders and the courage of Dutch relief workers who distributed supplies under dangerous conditions. The first truck convoys rolled out even before the formal German surrender, underscoring the urgency of the mission.
The impact was immediate and profound. For many Dutch citizens, the arrival of the food convoys symbolized liberation and the restoration of hope after years of deprivation. Operation Faust and the air-dropped supplies from Manna and Chowhound saved countless lives and remain a deeply cherished memory in Dutch history.
Operation Faust’s Legacy
Operation Faust stands as a testament to humanitarian action during conflict. It demonstrated the power of negotiation, compassion, and international cooperation, even in the final, chaotic days of war. The operation is remembered for its logistical achievement and moral significance—a reminder that humanity and mercy can prevail even in war.
80th Anniversary Commemoration
In May 2025, the 80th anniversary of Operation Faust is being honoured by the Atlantic Coast DX & Contest Group with the special event callsign VC9F. Throughout the month, amateur radio operators are activating this callsign to commemorate the operation’s legacy and to educate the public about its historical importance. This event connects the global amateur radio community with the enduring story of Operation Faust, ensuring that the memory of this lifesaving mission continues to inspire future generations.
As we mark this milestone, we remember the courage of those who risked everything to deliver hope to a starving nation, and we reaffirm the enduring value of compassion and international solidarity in times of crisis.