July 21st is Belgium's National Day. Eighty-five years ago, Belgium declared independence on this day, with Prince Leopold elected as the first king.
Though the war has yet to end, Albert I still went to Brussels to hold a military parade.
This parade was unusual; it did not feature pristine military uniforms and equipment. The participating troops were guerrilla forces commanded by Colonel Eden.
The soldiers wore an assortment of clothes and carried rifles from various countries - British, French, and even German.
Additionally, the Third Tank Regiment stationed in Brussels sent a dozen tanks and armored vehicles to represent France in the parade.
As soon as they marched onto the street, they were met with cheers from people on both sides of the road, waving frantically at the troops or holding up Belgian flags and shouting.
Albert I stood atop one of the armored vehicles, holding onto it and waving at the people with eyes full of excitement and joy.
