Belgian Fire Cross 1914-1918 (Croix du Feu 1914-1918 or Vuurkruis)

This is the Belgian Fire Cross 1914-1918 (Croix du Feu 1914-1918 or Vuurkruis 1914-1918), a bronze military decoration for WWI front-line service. Established in 1934, it was awarded to holders of the “Fire Card,” given to those under enemy fire, but not posthumously.
Design Details
The cross features a battlefield scene on the obverse with a helmet, bayonet, howitzer, and rising sun between laurel branches. The reverse shows a laurel branch crossed by “SALVS PATRIAE SVPREMA LEX” (“The Nation’s Salvation is Our Highest Duty”), a crown with rays, “1914” and “1918,” and designer “A. Rombaut.” It suspends from a red moiré ribbon with three blue stripes.
Instituted by royal decree on February 6, 1934, it recognized Belgian armed forces (and some foreigners) exposed to combat during 1914-1918. Notable recipients include aviator Baron Willy Coppens and various lieutenant generals.