History of the Golden Book of Fire Cards
The Livre d'Or was published by J. Rosez in Brussels in the 1930s, with a final edition in 1940. It contains the names and photos of war veterans who held a Fire Card. Veterans wishing to be mentioned in the book were asked to complete a form listing the honours they had received. The same form was also used to order the book. In order to check the accuracy of the information, visits were made to the homes of those concerned, who were then asked to provide the necessary proof. Part of the profits from the sale of the book went to the "Fonds des grands invalides".
The book was published and republished several times: in 1933-1934/ 1934-1935/ 1935-1936/ 1936-1937/ 1937/ 1937-1938/ 1938-1939 and 1940. The 1940 edition is not a separate edition but a copy of the previous editions. There were therefore 8 editions in Dutch and 8 in French, with several addenda. The Dutch and French editions are identical except for the description of the regiments.
Each veteran who ordered the book received a personalised version with a copy of 'his' Fire Card. Our contributor
The front rafters generated a pension from the age of 45, paid quarterly by postal order. The amount depended on the number of chevrons.
What information does the book contain?
*The names of veterans with a photo (not always), their place of residence, rank and military honours. Of course, not all veterans appear in the books.
