This film is part of Free
Gallant Defenders
Retreating Belgian troops arrive in Ostend in the wake of the Siege of Antwerp.
Overview
The Topical Budget newsreel defined itself in WWI, and its cameras arrived early in Belgium to document the German occupation, sending back prime images as the situation unfolded. This item was filmed shortly after the week-long Attack on Antwerp, and catches the retreating Belgian troops as they arrive, war-weary, at Ostend. One or two men manage a smile for the camera as they shuffle past.
The British Government had supported Belgium's defence of her territories, and the newsreels, like the press, applauded the efforts of 'plucky little Belgium' in resisting German invasion. The title of this item reinforces the message that, having lost Antwerp, the Belgian army deserved sympathy and respect - and that they weren't beaten yet.
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