The attitude of the King as regards the war was very disadvantageous for him, but the Army too was not spared. Up to a certain point the shock which the German invasion brought about amongst the citizens of Belgium was understandable. The investment in the construction of an impregnable defensive ring (Fort Eben Emael was the “strongest fortress in the world” according to a journalist) created an illusory sense of security which evaporated after the catastrophe at the Albert Canal. Had all that money been properly used? Had the Army understood how to use this wall? The demoralized man in the street doubted it.

Only recently has the Belgian Army been “rehabilitated”. Thus at the ceremony to remember the attack on Fort Eben Emael, Colonel (ret’d) Alain Pelzer, the organizer of this emblematic occasion in May 2010, reminded those present that it recalled “the violation of Belgian neutrality” and underlined again and again the defensive efforts of the Belgians “who did not stand idly by during the devastating attack by the paratroopers”. The passage of time since the event doubtless made possible a critical but more reflective analysis in which it should not be forgotten, and stated unmistakeably and respectfully, that those who, despite some incredible errors, suffered under these difficult circumstances and even lost their lives, did their duty.