Belgian Ceremonial Belt

Belgian military parade and ceremonial belt for officers, specifically from the early Cold War period during the reign of King Baudouin (reign 1951–1993).

The main features and historical context of this specific militaria item are as follows:

Features

• The Buckle ("Buckle B Dorée"): This is a gilded brass buckle ("dorée"). The letter "B" is centered on the buckle and directly references the royal monogram of King Baudouin.
• Usage: Worn exclusively by officers of the Belgian Armed Forces with the dress uniform or ceremonial attire during military parades and official state visits.

Historical Context: Korea & Congo Period

The belt dates specifically from the 1950s and early 1960s, a turbulent period for the Belgian military:

• Korean War (1950–1953): Worn by officers of the well-known Belgian United Nations Command (the Corps Volontaires pour la Corée) that fought under the UN flag. Following their return and during commemorative parades, officers wore this type of ceremonial belt.
• Belgian Congo (Until independence in 1960): During these years, Belgium maintained large active military bases in Congo (such as Kamina and Kitona). Belgian officers and Paracommando units wore this ceremonial attire during official occasions in the colony, including the historic independence ceremony in 1960 where King Baudouin's sword famously symbolized the event.
• Waist: 85 cm (approx. 33.5 inches)