Belgian Centenary Plans Announced

The following article from the Belgian newspaper La Libre describes the Belgian Government’s recently unveiled plans for the upcoming centenary of the First World War.

The article says that three major national ceremonies will be held in remembrance of the conflict.

Additionally, the article outlines Belgian plans to work alongside the British Government in order to commemorate symbolic moments that affected both themselves and the British, such as the first Battle of Ypres.

Commemorative events will be held throughout the period of 2014-2018 across the country and will reflect many aspects of the conflict. These will include the invasion of Belgium, symbolic value of the Belgian royal family, and the experience of living under foreign occupation.

Translated by:

Anna Bearfield, Centenary News Team

For the original article, click here

TRANSLATED EXCERPT OF ARTICLE

In Belgium, three commemorative ceremonies have been organised for the Centenary of 1914-1918.

…The first ceremony will be held on the morning of the 4th of August 2014 at Lige for the 100th anniversary of the invasion of Belgium and the violation of its neutrality…
The two other ceremonies will take place on the 28th October at Ypres and at Niewpoort for the 100th anniversary of the first Battle of Ypres… another will be held on the 11th November 2018 at Brussels for the 100th anniversary of the signature of the armistice…”

Image courtesy of La Libre