Belgian War Remembrance at the Cenotaph

13 July 2024

King Philippe & Queen Mathilde attended the Belgian war remembrance ceremony at the Cenotaph in London. 

They were accompanied by the Duke & Duchess of Gloucester.

UK and Belgian personnel and military representatives have paraded in London to mark the heroism of Belgian soldiers in the First World War. The Belgian King and Queen and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester were at the Cenotaph today. @MonarchieBe @GrenadierGds pic.twitter.com/zEUO2ZlDaX

— Alexander Seale (@AlexSeale) July 13, 2024

There was a second ceremony at the Horse Guards Parade.

Belgium is the only country outside the Commonwealth authorized to parade armed and in uniform through the streets of London. This privilege was accorded to us in 1934 by King George V, in memory of King Albert I of the Belgians, hero of  WWI, and as recognition of the Belgian army's bravery and heavy sacrifices. 

1922, King Albert I & King George V at the Royal Palace during the British State Visit to Belgium.

This Belgian parade takes place each year, usually during the weekend before the Belgian National Day.