Royal decoration for Mr. Kuijpers

During the festive start of the new season of the Royal Rangers in Schinnen, on Friday, September 19, 2025 in the Come and See Church, two Royal Awards were presented to residents of the municipalities of Beekdaelen and Kerkrade. Mayor Geurts of Beekdaelen presented both decorations. For one of the decorators, he did so partly on behalf of Mayor Dassen of Kerkrade. 

Both decorandi received the award in recognition of their long-term, versatile and indispensable commitment to society. They have been active for decades for the Christian scouting organization Royal Rangers in Schinnen. 

The first Royal Award was presented to Mrs. Widdershoven-van den Berg. She has been active as a co-founder, board member and volunteer within the Royal Rangers since 1990. Among other things, Ms. Widdershoven-van den Berg provides translations of international programs and manuals, organizes weekly meetings and camps, and serves as camp counselor and first aider. She also contributes to the interpretation of the annual Remembrance of the Dead in Beekdaelen. 

The Royal Decoration was presented to Mr. Kuijpers, a resident of the municipality of Kerkrade. Mr. Kuijpers has been an indispensable force within the Royal Rangers for more than 25 years. He mentors youth, shares his expertise on scouting techniques and equipment maintenance, and organizes various camps. He is also highly regarded as a camp cook. Furthermore, as treasurer, he manages finances and has a large international network that contributes to cooperation and cultural exchange, including through Erasmus projects.

The municipalities of Beekdaelen and Kerkrade warmly congratulate them on this special honor.