Infantryman with the 10th Regiment of Line Infantry, training gear without weapon, ca. 1900/1911
On the eve of the Great War the Belgian infantryman was given a uniform and equipment influenced by the German model, its the most characteristic feature being the “Camembert” cap (see photo left).
The uniform was simplified: 1897 jacket, grey-blue trousers with distinctive red piping (green from 1911 onwards).
Specific innovations existed, such as the “Valcke-Fonson” belly cartridge belt, holding 120 rounds of ammunition and used by soldiers to counterbalance the weight of their rucksacks.
Patrol bag, infantryman, early 20th century
Belt with copper plate, infantryman, early 20th century
Button, infantryman, early 20th century
Ankle boots., infantryman, early 20th century
