Fleron Fort

The Fort de Fléron is one of twelve forts built as part of the Fortifications of Liege in the late 19th century in Belgium. It was built between 1881 and 1891 according to the plans of General Henri Alexis Brialmont. Contrasting with the French forts built in the same era by Raymond Adolphe Séré de Rivieres, the fort was built exclusively of unreinforced concrete, a new material, rather than masonry. The fort was heavily bombarded by German artillery in the Battle of Liege. Fléron was upgraded in the 1930s to become part of the fortified position of Liege in an attempt to forestall or slow an attack from Germany. Located in the center of Fléron, the fort has been buried and is surrounded by apartments. From 10 May to 16 May 1940 Fléron was repeatedly attacked by air.

The electrical system was destroyed the first day, compelling all firing adjustments and loading to be done by hand. The fort fired on German forces in the area, as well as providing covering fire to neighboring forts. Targets included the Citadel of Liege, the airport, and the Chàteau de Tancrémont. The fort also fired on attacking aircraft. Heavy aerial attacks on 17 May wrecked the communications center and the 15 cm turrets. The 105mm guns ran out of ammunition, and a 75mm gun was inoperable.