Luitenant Calberg monument

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Nieuwpoort, Belgium, the Luitenant Calberg monument stands as a poignant tribute to a fallen hero of the First World War. This modest yet deeply significant memorial commemorates Lieutenant Leopold Calberg, a young Belgian engineer whose life was tragically cut short during the tumultuous days of the Great War. As you explore this historic site, you are invited to reflect on the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for their country.

The Story of Lieutenant Leopold Calberg

Born on December 8, 1889, in Liège, Leopold Joseph Marie Julien Calberg was a promising young man with a bright future ahead. He pursued engineering at the University of Liège and graduated as a mining engineer in 1913. His career in the steel industry was just taking off when the outbreak of World War I altered the course of his life forever. Driven by a sense of duty, Calberg volunteered for military service on August 1, 1914, joining the pioneers’ company of the 3rd Army Division.

Calberg's military journey was marked by his courage and dedication. He participated in the defense of Antwerp and the retreat to the Yser. His valor at the battles of Diksmuide earned him the French War Cross first class, awarded by Admiral Ronarc’h. His service continued with the Compagnie Sapeurs-Pontonniers, responsible for the operation and maintenance of the sluice complex in Nieuwpoort. Here, he was promoted to second lieutenant in 1915 and later to lieutenant in October 1917.

The Tragic End

Lieutenant Calberg's life came to a tragic end on October 16, 1917. The exact circumstances of his death remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, with various accounts suggesting different causes. Some sources attribute his death to gas intoxication, while others suggest he was fatally struck during an artillery bombardment. Despite these uncertainties, what remains clear is that Calberg fell at his post in Nieuwpoort, a site now marked by the monument erected in his honor.

The Monument

The Luitenant Calberg monument is a simple yet powerful structure. Comprising a brick wall standing one and a half meters high, it features an embedded stone plaque inscribed with the words: ICI EST TOMBE LE 16 OCTOBRE 1917 LE LIEUTENANT DU GENIE BELGE LEOPOLD CALBERG DES SAPEURS PONTONIERS R.I.P. This inscription solemnly marks the place where Calberg served and ultimately gave his life.

Located near the sluice complex where he was stationed, the monument serves as a lasting reminder of the sacrifices made by young soldiers like Calberg. It is a place of reflection, where visitors can pause to honor the memory of those who fought and died in the war.

Legacy and Recognition

In the years following the war, Calberg's legacy has been preserved in various ways. A barracks in Burcht was named Luitenant Calbergkazerne in his honor, although it was demolished in 1975. His name is also inscribed on a bronze plaque of the Compagnie Sapeurs-Pontonniers at the ruins of the Saint-Laurentius Tower in Nieuwpoort.

Furthermore, a street in Nieuwpoort was named after him, and he is commemorated on a marble memorial at the University of Liège, honoring the 497 war victims from the university. His valor and sacrifice have been recognized with both French and Belgian honors, ensuring that his contributions will not be forgotten.

Visiting the Monument

A visit to the Luitenant Calberg monument offers a unique opportunity to connect with history on a personal level. Set against the tranquil backdrop of Nieuwpoort's natural beauty, the monument invites contemplation and respect for those who have served. As you stand before the memorial, you are reminded of the courage and resilience of individuals like Calberg, who faced unimaginable challenges with unwavering resolve.

Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, the Luitenant Calberg monument provides a meaningful and moving experience. It is a testament to the enduring impact of World War I on Belgium and the world, and a tribute to the young lives lost in the pursuit of peace and freedom.

In conclusion, the Luitenant Calberg monument is more than just a memorial; it is a symbol of bravery, sacrifice, and remembrance. It stands as a beacon of history, inviting us to reflect on the past and honor those who gave everything for their country. As you explore this historic site, take a moment to pay homage to Lieutenant Leopold Calberg and the countless others who shaped the course of history with their courage and dedication.