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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

Placing a Charge on a "Belgian Gate"

Three soldiers placing an explosive on a structure
Description: Drawing, Ink and Wash on Paper; by Mitchell Jamieson; 1944; Framed Dimensions 30H X 25W
Accession #: 88-193-HQ
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Naval demolition men are preparing a charge that will blow up this "Belgian Gate" type of obstacles, which is a framework of steel mounted on rollers, with the flat side facing seaward, about 10' high and 8'wide.  

The explosive charge used for this type of obstacle was very pliable and could be bent around steel or stuffed in crevices.  Tetrytol, a stronger charge, but not easily handled was also used.

These demolition units were started as part of the beach battalions and were trained intensively for this type of work. After they cleared channels through the barriers and the beach was secured, their most important job was over, but there still remained plenty of demolition work to do on the beach. 

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  • Art
Wars & Conflicts
  • World War II 1939-1945
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