Mike van den Dobbelsteen — founder and guide, Allied Victory Tours
Founder and guide, Allied Victory Tours
Mike van den Dobbelsteen
Forty Years of Learning to Tell Their Story Properly
Born in the Netherlands, Mike grew up in the shadow of what the Allied powers had done for his country and his continent. That debt has always been personal. It shaped his entire life.
After five years of service in the Dutch Army and fifteen as a graphic designer, Mike became a bilingual guide at Leeds Castle, England — and in 2015, moved to Normandy to do the thing he'd spent his career preparing for: telling their full story.
For nearly 40 years he has collected wartime memorabilia, participated in WW2 re-enactments, published military-historical articles, delivered presentations in schools, and served as historical advisor for film and TV productions. In 2019, he presented a documentary on the battles for the bridges across the river Elle. He was also an extra in the movie "Fury" (2013).
What Guests Say
"Best tour I have ever had (and I have had a few!) Mike is VERY knowledgeable about D-Day in particular and WW2 in general. We immediately connected and I felt I found my kindred spirit who cares deeply about keeping the memories of these great men and women alive!"
"Our day unfolded at a relaxed pace with Mike providing detailed explanations of the sites, their significance and the logistics involved in trying to achieve a victory. Mike was very patient and knowledgeable and he answered all of our questions."
"Mike was an excellent choice for our private group of 6. We wanted to see the beaches and follow the US and British airborne. Mike built the tour around the sites we wanted to see. We really appreciated his flexibility and his knowledge."
