Belgian Fire Cross (Vuurkruis / Croix du Feu)

Original Belgian Fire Cross (Vuurkruis / Croix du Feu). The Fire Cross (Vuurkruis / Croix du Feu) is a distinguished Belgian military decoration awarded to holders of the so-called Fire Card, issued to servicemen who spent at least 32 months at the front during the First World War.

The medal was officially instituted by Royal Decree on 6 February 1934. Notably, this decoration could not be awarded posthumously, underscoring its recognition of surviving front-line veterans who endured prolonged combat service.

The decoration features a striking rectangular form with rich symbolic relief details:

• Obverse:
  At the center is a relief depiction of an abandoned battlefield. In the foreground appear a Belgian World War I helmet, a bayonet, and a howitzer. In the upper right corner, the sun breaks through the clouds — symbolizing hope and victory emerging from the devastation of war.

• Reverse:
  A large laurel branch stretches diagonally from the lower left to the upper right, intersected by the Latin inscription:
  “SALUS PATRIAE SUPREMA LEX” (“The salvation of the nation is our highest law.”)

  In the upper left corner, a royal crown radiates seven beams downward. In the lower right corner, the years “1914” and “1918” are inscribed one above the other. Beneath the stem of the laurel branch appears the name of the medal’s designer: “A. Rombaut.”

An exceptional and meaningful piece for collectors of Belgian militaria and World War I veteran decorations, representing endurance, sacrifice, and unwavering service at the front.