The second element of our Belgian remembrance activity saw SECRET WW2 honoured to place a wreath in this annual parade which this year saw attendance from HM Philippe, King of the Belgians.
The Belgian Cenotaph Parade sees elements of the Belgian Armed Forces participate in an armed parade from the Cenotaph, through Whitehall and Horse Guards Parade to the Guards Memorial. Belgium is the only country outside the Commonwealth that is able to parade its soldiers, armed and in uniform, through London. The event normally takes place on the Saturday preceding Belgian National Day on 21st July.
The annual parade was instituted in the wake of the accidental death of the Belgian monarch, Albert I, in February 1934 and recognises the valour of the Belgian military commanded by Albert during the First World War. It was approved by the British monarch King George V who was also a relative. The event is attended by government ministers, dignitaries, soldiers, cadets, and military veterans from both countries.
It was good to see Sven and Bruno from the London embassy’s Defence Team and visitors from Belgium including SECRET WW2 Friend Peter Verstraeten (pictured).
Our wreath was placed by Paul McCue, Executive Trustee.
Photograph credits: Kevin Davis and Belgian Armed Forces.
