Remains of Belgian soldier from World War I found in West Flanders

A contractor has discovered the remains of a Belgian soldier from the First World War In Diksmuide, West Flanders province. This is a rare find because there were far fewer Belgian soldiers active in the war compared to British, French and German soldiers.

While constructing a wooden walking and cycling path in Diksmuide at the end of September, the contractor came across human bones. The remains were found along the dyke of the Yser river.

The police decided to report the find to the Flemish Heritage Agency, and also notify the War Graves Department of the War Heritage Institute. The following day, the body was exhumed by an archaeological team. The initial investigation showed that it probably was a Belgian soldier from the First World War.

This is a rare discovery. The last time a fallen Belgian soldier from World War I was found was in 2016, and the previous find was made in 1952. That’s because there were far fewer Belgian soldiers active in the war compared to British, French and German soldiers.

The Heritage Agency will now investigate the body further. The War Graves Department will search the archives to see if they can trace the fallen soldier's identity, although that will be very difficult. Afterwards, he will be buried at a military cemetery.

The soldier wore a soldier's ring with the year 1915 on it. The remains of clothing point to a uniform that was only in use by troops at the Yser river from 1915.

“This find, just before the commemoration of Armistice Day, reminds us of the many thousands of unknown soldiers of World War I,” said Flemish heritage minister Ben Weyts. “There are so many boys who were never identified or who are still missing. We should be so grateful to our ancestors for all the sacrifices they made for our freedom and prosperity. Every soldier we still find will be given a respectful final resting place.”

^{#FlandersNewsService | Military cemetery in Zonnebeke, West Flanders © BELGA PHOTO IMAGEBROKER}