Belgian Gendarmerie Resistance Member Grouping
An interesting grouping belonging to Emile Pierre-Joseph Castieu from Quaregnon, Hainaut. The lot consists of an original post-WWII Belgian Gendarmerie bonnet de police, a sewing kit, handcuffs, a paybook, photographs, and a copy of the speech delivered at his funeral. The sewing kit, handcuffs, and bonnet de police are all marked with his identification number.
The funeral speech provides fascinating insight into Emile's life and wartime service. He was a veteran of the 18-Day Campaign in 1940 and later became a member of the Belgian Resistance, where he distributed clandestine newspapers and took part in sabotage operations. In 1944, he joined the Auxiliary Forces before entering the Belgian Gendarmerie in 1945.
All items show general wear consistent with their age and use, but overall the grouping remains in good, honest condition. An attractive and historically significant lot with research potential.
A Dutch and English translation of the funeral speech can be found in the final images.