Belgian Rank Insignia 1914

[James H]

Am trying to put together a site on the Belgian Army at the outbreak. I'm struggling with the sleeve markings of NCOs. The sources I've looked at seem to be ambiguous or contradictory when it comes to chevrons/diagonal stripes, etc. Can anyone recommend a decent source?

While I'm at it, this photo is from Fort de Loncin in Liege. The sleeve markings could therefore be expected to be those of the Fortress Artillery. Anyone know what's what?

I suppose it's a long shot, but any info much appreciated.

[CROONAERT]

I don't know if this is of any help....

[James H]

Thank you very much, Croonaert. I have that chart, but there are other versions that conflict with some aspects of it. I think that some changes must have been made during the reorganisation of 1913, but the two systems are mixed together, and I'm not sure of the date of the chart you've posted. The illustrations at Fort de Loncin seem to contain elements of both. It looks as if a trip to Belgium is indicated.

Thanks again for your trouble.

Any further info welcome.

[cdr]

The best source here is "Evolution des tenues militaires Belges" 1863 -1915 by Lierneux (Belgian army museum) It is only available in French

But it covers every possible item and change (official publications) in Belgian uniforms for that period.

Carl

[CROONAERT]

I'm not sure of the date of the chart you've posted.

Its from a publication of 1909. Unfortunately , everything else I've got dates from post-1915 or 1940.

Dave

[James H]

Thanks, Dave. The Handbook of the Belgian Army, a British War Office publication, goes into a lot of detail about insignia as they were in 1906 but is very sketchy in the early 1914 updated appendix. I appreciate your help.

Carl - thanks also for that. I've corresponded with Dr. Lierneux a couple of times. I shall attempt to pick his brains.

Thanks for all help.

J