Damaged Building Bank Rønne

The Germans occupied the island of Bornholm from April 9, 1940. In May 1945, the inhabitants of the island of Bornholm heard that the liberation of their island was imminent. But what they don't know yet is that the war is not over for them. The Germans would surrender to the British under the command of Field Marshal Montgomery. News of the surrender came too late, causing Soviet planes to bomb the municipalities of Nexø and Rønne on 7 May 1945. Leaflets were also scattered across the island with the order that Gerhard von Kamptz should surrender.

On May 8, 1945, Nexø and Rønne were evacuated after another Soviet aircraft were en route to the island of Bornholm. They once again bombed both cities that endured the heavier, as there was no more damage than the day before. Numerous civilians and German soldiers were killed in both bombings.

The islanders hope for a quick liberation and an end to the fighting. But hope quickly turns. A day later, on May 9, 1945, Russian troops arrive to occupy the island. Bornholm feels let down by the rest of Denmark. Only a year later, on April 5, 1946, the definitive liberation of the Danish island follows.

After the liberation, reconstruction of both cities started. There was also place to commemorate the events. For example, remnants of the Savings Bank in Rønne were preserved and maintained as a small monument. The inscription on the remains:
DEL AF
HOVEDINDGANGSPARTI FRA DEN GAMLE
SPAREKASSEBYGNING
SKADET VED BOMBARDEMENT
8 MAJ 1945

In English:
PART OF
MAIN ENTRANCE OF THE FORMER
BANK BUILDING
DAMAGED BY BOMBARDEMENT
8 MAI 1945