Home > Historic > World War I and II > Soldiers
Two unnamed men risked their lives in a daring exploit to stand on the tarmac of an
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Two unnamed men risked their lives in a daring exploit to stand on the tarmac of an
Two unnamed men risked their lives in a daring exploit to stand on the tarmac of an English aerodrome to salute the Belgian air force flag, a symbol of free men. The flag was given by the King of the Belgians to the Belgian Air Force, but when the Allied lines broke in 1940, German orders were to burn the flag. Disobeying orders, Air Force officers stuffed the flag into a shell case and buried it in the woods, where it was later retrieved by an observer in the Belgian Air Force
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 20953557
© Mary Evans/Robert Hunt Collection
Belgian Belgians Salute Officers
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Related Images
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Soldiers
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images May
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative photograph, two unnamed men boldly defy the odds as they stand on the tarmac of an English aerodrome, their hands raised in a salute towards the Belgian air force flag. The year is 1940, and the Second World War rages on. The Belgian Air Force, once a proud and formidable military force, has been forced to retreat in the face of the advancing German army. As Allied lines crumbled, German orders were given to destroy the Belgian Air Force's symbols of national pride. The Belgian air force flag, a potent symbol of freedom and resistance, was no exception. But in a daring and defiant act, Belgian air force officers refused to comply. They risked their lives to save the flag, stuffing it into a shell case and burying it in the woods to protect it from destruction. Years later, the flag was discovered by a Belgian Air Force observer, a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who fought to preserve their nation's honor in the face of overwhelming adversity. The photograph captures the essence of this remarkable story, with the two men standing proudly before the flag, their faces set with determination and resolve. The image is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women of the Belgian Air Force during the darkest days of the Second World War.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
