5th Infantry Division (Belgium)

At the start of World War I, the 5th Infantry Division was classified as ‘5th Division’, commanded by Lieutenant-General Ruwet. The headquarters were located at Mons and the division was composed of the 1st, 16th, and 17th Mixed Brigades. They had additional Cavalry, with the 16th and 17th Mixed Brigades mainly composed of Chasseurs, with additional support from Divisional Cavalry. [1]

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During peacetime, the 5th Infantry Division was part of Iste Army Corps with 6th Infantry Division. They are not the strongest Divisions in the Army, but certainly do have a reputation, having a organic artillery regiment (the 11th Artillery Regiment). 5th Infantry Division was handed over to VI Corp, who stationed them at sector Halle of the Albert Canal.

When the German attack was confirmed, the 5th Infantry Division arrive at the K-W line and reinforced the 10th Infantry Division which was just south of them. Although the Germans have not breached the Albert Canal, the high command is preparing for a retreat to the K-W line.

After the fall of Lèige, the 5th Infantry Divisions northern flank was secured by the 2nd Infantry Division which had been withdrawn from Liège.

Then the British Expeditionary Forces arrive and the 5th Infantry Division’s flank becomes a position of confusion. The 10th Infantry Division was sent away and was replaced by British forces. Now, the 5th Infantry Division retains responsibility of keeping connection between the entire Belgian Army, and the Allied Armies.

After the abandonment of Demer/Gate, the German attack was now focused on the Leuven sector of the K-W line. After heavy bombardment, contact was made with the first German soldiers. The allies wavered, and eventually, the British and French armies abandoned the K-W line. Without Allied support, the Divisions of the Belgian Army also had to retreat.

On May 17, the 5th Infantry Division made its way to the Willebroek Canal. After a new line was established, the 5th Infantry Division was positioned in the village of Erpe, then, under VI Corp, made its way to the Semmerzake-Munte Sector.

Even after the Allied forces in Flanders were encircled, the Germans diverted their attention onto breaching the Northern defense. Although minor fighting was for the VI Corp, the 2nd Infantry Division had experienced a attack from the Germans and morale wavered. VI Corp sends the 5th Infantry Division south to strengthen defense.

Things deteriorated quickly. The 5th Infantry Division was sent to the Leie Diversion Canal and positioned itself near Nevele. The 4th Infantry Division south had the Germans overrun their defense. To counter, 5th Infantry Division built new defenses near Poesele.

By May 27, heavy fighting is taking place as pressure is already increasing. The 5th Infantry Division line was bending from what seems to be never ending German attacks. After a last ditch defense, the entire Belgian front fell back.

With the strength of the 5th Infantry Division reduced, the 5th Infantry Division surrendered with the main army on May 28.