Force Publique

The Force Publique (Public Force) was the official armed force of the Belgian Congo. Organized in 1885 under the Congo Free State, and re-organized by the Belgian government in 1908 as both police and military, it served as the colonial military during World War I, where it fought against German forces in East Africa.

During Belgian government rule, Force Publique was organized with European officers and NOCs leading African soldiers. During the war, many Congolese, including Sergeant Barthelemy were forcibly drafted to serve in the force.