From the Channel to the Ypres Salient: The Belgian Sector 1914 -1918

The sector north of Ypres is known for the inundation of much of the ground to the east of the Yser that acted as a block to the German advance in 1914. The Belgian army played a significant role in the Great War, particularly in the defense and reconstruction of the army behind the Yser. This book provides an insight into Belgium's army role for most of the war as the protector of the northern flank of the Allied line.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 18 August 2021
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The sector north of Ypres is renowned for the extensive flooding of the ground east of the Yser, which served as a formidable barrier to the German advance in the autumn of 1914. Following this, military operations were severely restricted. A significant portion of this line was manned by Belgian troops, with some support from the French army at its southern end and the British army on the Channel coast.

The role of the Belgian army in the Great War is relatively unknown, except for the initial months when brave little Belgium held on to its vital fortified cities, notably Liege and Antwerp, for longer than German planning had anticipated. It was not until mid-October 1914 that the Belgian army was forced back to the area of the Yser, with its defenses reinforced by French troops while Haig's I Corps approached from the south.

At this critical juncture of the campaign, a harsh decision was made to open the dykes at the end of October 1914, resulting in the flooding of much of the low-lying ground east of the Yser. This strategic move effectively halted major German offensive operations, allowing the Belgian army to remain relatively secure for nearly four years.

During this period, Free Belgium was reduced to two significant towns that could be considered secure and out of the range of most German artillery: the coastal resort of La Panne (De Panne) and the much larger settlement of Furnes (Veurne). Over these years, the Belgian army underwent a remarkable rebuilding process under the dynamic leadership of King Albert I. By the time of the general allied advance in September 1918, the Belgian army was fully equipped and ready to participate in the Advance to Victory, as part of an allied Army commanded by King Albert.

While this phase of the war falls outside the scope of this analysis, it is worth noting that the Belgian army played a crucial role in the overall outcome of the Great War. Its resilience, determination, and strategic prowess contributed significantly to the Allied victory. The bravery and sacrifice of the Belgian soldiers deserve to be remembered and honored for generations to come.

Weight: 492g
Dimension: 139 x 215 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526749314