Appendix 20
King Leopold's Order of the Day, May 25th, 1940

TRANSLATION OF TEXT IN FLEMISH AND FRENCH

SOLDIERS:

THE great battle which we were expecting has commenced.
It will be hard. We will carry it on with all our strength and with surpreme energy.
It is being fought on the ground where in 1914 we stood victoriously against the invader.

SOLDIERS:

Belgium expects that you will do honour to her Flag.

OFFICERS AND MEN:

Whatever happens, my fate will be yours.
I ask of you all firmness, discipline, trust.
Our cause is just and pure.
Providence will help us.
LONG LIVE BELGIUM!

LEOPOLD.

In the field, the 25th of May, 1940.

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