Belgische Parachutisten

The Belgian composer and conductor Pieter Leemans (1897-1980) composed the world famous 'March of the Belgian Paratroopers ' (or Parachutists) in one single night after having paid a visit to this newly created regiment .At the commanding officer's request, he gave the march an Anglo-Belgian character, due to the role of the British unit as to the creation of the Belgian regiment. It was premiered by the Royal Symphonic Band of the Belgian Guides, conducted by Franz Wangermée at a radio concert in the Brussels concert hall 'Palais des Beaux-Arts' on the occasion of the anniversary of 'D-Day' on 8 May 1946.