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Summary: Scenes in the Belgian capital during the week of liberation (September 4-7 1944).
Description: The opening is muted: flags in the streets, the damaged Palais de Justice, burned or wrecked German vehicles are examined by children, but most of the film shows the frenzied celebrations of the crowds of citizens - "Hitler's head" paraded on a stake etc - and their enthusiastic welcome to the columns of British troops, whose vehicles' progress is repeatedly blocked by cheering citizens, girls anxious to kiss the soldiers etc. A still greater welcome is given to the column of Belgian troops, headed by Colonel Piron, who lays a wreath at the tomb of Belgium's unknown warrior. Units of the Belgian Resistance fighters also parade. Outside the Hotel de Ville, the Burgermeister, Van de Meulebroeck, newly released from prison, greets Piron; a column and band of Veterans parade; the Mayor appears on the balcony; more cheering crowds. German Prisoners of War (captured by the Resistance) are the only ones to fulfil Germany's pledge "Wir fahren nach Engelland." Commentary throughout seeks to share the general excitement.
Access Conditions:
Featured Period:1939-1945
Production Date:1944
Production Country: GB (?)
Production Details:
Personalities, Units and Organisations: Meulebroeck, Frédéric Joseph Van De (person)
Piron (Colonel) (person)
British Army (regiment/service)
Belgian resistance fighters (regiment/service)
Belgian Army (regiment/service)
