Summary

Alternative Name(s): Pin, Button, Pin-back, Tinny

World War I fundraising badge inscribed 'For Belgium and Honor'. Pezikian & Andersen (2017: 13) indicate that it was issued for the May button day, held on Empire Day, 24 May 1915. The badges cost one shilling each, and a total of £10,000 was raised. Following this success a further issue in June was made available to school children for 3d each.

Britain was bound by treaty to aid Belgium and duly came to that country's aid in August 1914 in response to German aggression. Stories of German atrocities abounded and led to widespread sympathy across the British empire, including Australia, for 'plucky little Belgium.' This sympathy, coupled with the belief that the war would be over by Christmas, led to large numbers of enlistments in the early months of the war.

The slogan 'For Belgium and Honor' is most likely a reference to this desire to come to Belgium's aid and the sense that the British empire was honour bound to do so. It is likely that this badge was sold to raise funds to support the army as they endeavoured to come to Belgium's aid.

Physical Description

Round metal badge with green background. Belgian flag is shown in the centre with words printed in white above and below it. Pin at back fits into slot.

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