Liberation Festival in Plzeň marks 80 years since U.S. army freed the city

The city of Plzeň (Pilsen) has launched its five-day Liberation Festival, celebrating the 80th anniversary of the city's liberation by the U.S. army in 1945. This year’s edition includes the visit of Belgium’s King Philippe and Czech President Petr Pavel. Among the special guests is 99-year-old U.S. veteran Harry Humason, returning to the Czech Republic for the first time since World War II. More than 170 relatives of American and Belgian liberators also arrived. Highlights include the Sunday Freedom Convoy parade with over 350 historic military vehicles. Organizers expect tens of thousands of visitors to attend one of Europe’s largest WWII commemorations.