Tancrémont — the order to surrender

The last of the forts of the fortified position of Liège still standing, Tancrémont has been resisting German assaults since 10 May. Its garrison has seen Ében-Émael fall within hours, then Aubin-Neufchâteau and Battice after a dozen days. But the work still holds, intact in its vital parts.

On 28 May 1940, a piece of news upends the situation: King Leopold III has capitulated, the Belgian army is laying down its arms. The enemy comes to summon Tancrémont to surrender, citing the general capitulation.

Commandant Devos faces a question of military conscience. He may surrender at once, since the sovereign has capitulated and any resistance now seems pointless. Or he may refuse to give way on the enemy's word alone, and demand a written, authenticated order from the Belgian hierarchy before lowering the flag — at the risk of needlessly prolonging the siege. In doubt, whether to hand over the intact fort to the adversary or to hold on remains a decision heavy with meaning for honour and discipline.