Chief Warrant Officer Frank Raeman (Retired) of the Belgian Army, has devoted more than four decades to honouring the memory of those who served and fell during the First and Second World Wars—particularly those who rest far from home.
Frank’s passion for military history began early. At just 12 years old, he began participating in the recovery of missing soldiers to ensure they received proper military burials. Since then, he has been involved in the recovery of several fallen servicemen. Notably, in 1996, he discovered the remains of Canadian Spitfire pilot George St. Clair Boyd Reid and the following year, he assisted in the recovery of the remains of three RCAF crew members.
For the past three years, he has served as a key member of Belgium-Canada, a non-profit organization dedicated to honouring the war dead and maintaining the relations between Canada and Belgium. As head of public relations and active member of the grave adoption committee, he oversees a program that allows individuals and associations to “adopt” a grave, ensuring regular visits and floral tributes.
Frank has been instrumental in the creation of four war memorials honouring Allied casualties, including one dedicated to Squadron Leader George Reid. Each year, he participates in remembrance ceremonies and coordinates floral tributes at 12 cemeteries, personally placing chrysanthemums on 55 RAF, RAAF and RCAF graves—an initiative he funds himself.
Frank Raeman’s tireless efforts have left a profound impact—on Veterans, on the families of the fallen, on his local community and on the international stage. His work ensures that the sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten.