What is the physical geography of Belgium?
Belgium is a Western European country occupying an area of 30,689 km2 (11,849 sq mi). As can be observed on the physical map of Belgium there are three main geographical regions to Belgium: the coastal plain to the northwest, the central plateau, and the Ardennes uplands to the southeast.
Where is the headquarters of the shape in Belgium?
In September 1966, NATO agreed that Belgium should host SHAPE at Casteau. SHAPE closed its facility at Rocquencourt near Paris on 30 March 1967, and the next day held a ceremony to mark the opening of the new headquarters at Casteau.
What is Belgium known for?
Belgium, a culturally rich country, is a part of western Europe and is known for being home to many medieval monuments. It is a small country with several grand festivals and events happening throughout the year.
Where is Belgium located in Europe?
Where is Belgium? Belgium is a Western European nation. It is geographically positioned both in the Northern and Eastern hemispheres of the Earth. Belgium is bordered by 4 countries: by the Netherlands in the north; by Germany in the east; by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in the southeast and by France in the southwest.
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What does SHAPE Belgium mean?
Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers EuropeThe Supreme Allied SACEUR, a United States Flag or General officer, leads all NATO military operations and is dual-hatted as Commander US European Command. His command is exercised from the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) at Casteau, Mons, Belgium.
Is SHAPE still in Belgium?
SHAPE is situated in Mons, Belgium....Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers EuropeMotto(s)"Vigilia Pretium Libertatis" (Latin) "Vigilance is the Price of Liberty"Websitewww.shape.nato.intCommandersCommanderGeneral Christopher G. Cavoli, United States Army10 more rows
What city is SHAPE Belgium?
Mons, BelgiumSupreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) near Mons, Belgium is the Headquarters of Allied Command Operations (ACO). SHAPE is located about 70 km southwest of Brussels near the town Mons (Dutch: Bergen) north of the Motorway E 19/E 42.
When did SHAPE move to Belgium?
SHAPE History | why SHAPE moved from France to Belgium in 1967?
Who controls NATO military?
the Military CommitteeNATO's Command Structure is under the authority of the Military Committee, NATO's highest military authority composed of the Chiefs of Defence of all twenty-nine member countries.
Is Belgium in NATO?
On 2 June 1949, Paul-Henri Spaak, the Prime and Foreign Minister of Belgium, signed his country's Instrument of Accession to the North Atlantic Treaty. Boosted by its post-war fortunes, Belgium's status as a founding member of NATO helped raise its international profile and portray it as the “crossroads of Europe”.
What countries are in NATO?
Alphabetical list of NATO member countriesAlbania. 2009. Belgium. 1949. Bulgaria. 2004. Canada. 1949. Croatia. ... Denmark. 1949. Estonia. 2004. France. 1949. Germany. 1955. ... Iceland. 1949. Italy. 1949. Latvia. 2004. Lithuania. 2004. ... Netherlands. 1949. North Macedonia. 2020. Norway. 1949. Poland. 1999. ... Slovakia. 2004. Slovenia. 2004. Spain. 1982. Türkiye. 1952.
What is NATO headquarters called?
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is headquartered in a complex in Haren, part of the City of Brussels municipality of Belgium....NATO HeadquartersAddressBoulevard Léopold III / Leopold III-laan B-1110 HarenTown or cityCity of Brussels, Brussels-Capital RegionCountryBelgium6 more rows
Where is NATO military headquarters?
BrusselsNATO inaugurated its new permanent Headquarters on 25 May 2017, at a special meeting in Brussels. The new Headquarters is located opposite the 1967 site, on the former Haren airfield.
Who is the founder of NATO?
United StatesFranceUnited KingdomNorwayItalyCanadaNATO/FoundersThe North Atlantic Treaty Organization was created in 1949 by the United States, Canada, and several Western European nations to provide collective security against the Soviet Union. NATO was the first peacetime military alliance the United States entered into outside of the Western Hemisphere.
What is the full form of NATO?
North Atlantic Treaty OrganizationNATO / Full nameCollective defence: The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was founded in 1949 and is a group of 30 countries from Europe and North America that exists to protect the people and territory of its members.
What is SHAPE in France?
Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) was established on Apr. 2, 1951 in Rocquencourt, France, as part of an effort to establish an integrated and effective NATO military force.
Where is shape military base?
Mons, BelgiumThe command headquarters, known as Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, or SHAPE, is located in Casteau near Mons, Belgium. The mission of ACO and the SACEUR is to contribute to preserving the peace, security and territorial integrity of NATO member nations in its area of responsibility.
Where is the headquarter of NATO situated?
Brussels, BelgiumNATO Headquarters is the political and administrative centre of the Alliance. It is located at Boulevard Leopold III in Brussels, Belgium.
Where is the SHAPE in Belgium?
The Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) is located near Mons, Belgium (about 30 minutes south of Brussels) and is the military headquarters for NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe. Because it is a posting that you don’t hear about very often, ...
How many beers does Belgium make?
OK, this is an obvious one! First, the world-famous Belgian beer. This tiny country has more than 200 breweries that collectively make about 3,000 different delicious beers, and they only export roughly 60 percent of their beer production.
What is the best beer in Belgium?
Belgium has an incredible brewing heritage and most beer fans will appreciate the famous Westvleteran Trappist beer, brewed by the monks of St. Sixtus Abbey and rated two years running as the best beer in the world.
Is Belgium a good place to live?
Belgium is a cool, exciting, fun and delicious place to live . If SHAPE is a potential assignment option for you in the future, we hope this list helps you out.
Can you buy Belgian beer in the US?
Yes, we know America has had an explosion of craft breweries, but, the flavor and strength don’t hold a candle to the Belgian brews. Plus, the cost of purchasing Belgian beer in the states is just ridiculous, so if you’re able to stock up and take some back with you, we highly recommend doing so. Whether you go for a regional specialty beer or a classic like Chimay, you can’t go wrong.
Is there a shortage of historical sites in Belgium?
There is no shortage of historical sites to visit in Belgium – you can experience everything from Napoleonic era history at Waterloo to more recent WWI and WWII era sites and museums. Not only is it an incredible learning experience for the kids, but it also provides an opportunity to see places that you’ve likely only read about in history books. Even if you’re not a history buff, it is impossible not to be moved by the sheer scale of destruction and loss of life that Europe has endured over the years.
Can you have a baby in Belgium?
You can even add the pregnancy and delivery system in Belgium to this category. Yes, it’s a bit nerve-wracking having a baby in a foreign country but the healthcare and attention you will receive is amazing. Most of the doctors speak fluent or very good English, and the midwives go out of their way to communicate with you. Sarah had her second son while in Belgium and considers it to have been a perfect birth experience.
History
An integrated military structure for NATO was first established after the Korean War raised questions over the strength of Europe's defences against a Soviet attack. The first choice for commander in Europe was American General of the Army Dwight D.
Structure
The NATO Military Command Structure consists of two strategic commands and is directed by the International Military Staff:
In popular culture
Ian Fleming referenced SHAPE in his short-story 'From a View to a Kill', collected as part of For Your Eyes Only .
External links
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe.
What is Belgium's area?
As can be observed on the physical map of Belgium there are three main geographical regions to Belgium: the coastal plain to the northwest, the central plateau, and the Ardennes uplands to the southeast.
Where is Belgium?
Belgium is a Western European nation. It is geographically positioned both in the Northern and Eastern hemispheres of the Earth. Belgium is bordered by 4 countries: by the Netherlands in the north; by Germany in the east; by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in the southeast and by France in the southwest. It is bounded by the North Sea in the northwest.
What is the highest point in Belgium?
The highest point is the Botrange, at 2,276 ft. (694m). A yellow triangle marks the position of this point on the map. All rivers and streams of Belgium drain into the North Sea except for the Oise River that empties into the English Channel. The Scheldt, Meuse, and Yser are the three major rivers of the country.
What is Belgium's population?
With an area of 30,689 sq. km, and a population of 11.5 million residents, Belgium is the 6 th most densely populated nation in Europe and the 22 nd most densely populated country in the world. Located in the north-central part of the country is, Brussels – the capital, the largest and the most populous city of Belgium. It is also the de-facto capital of EU. Brussels is the administrative, financial and economic center of Belgium.
How many regions are there in Belgium?
Belgium (officially, the Kingdom of Belgium) is a federal state divided into three regions. These are Flemish Regions/Flanders, Wallonia/Walloon Region and the Brussels Capital Region. The former two are subdivided into 5 provinces while the latter is remains undivided. The regions are further subdivided into 43 administrative arrondissements ...
Is Belgium a Western European country?
The above outline map represents Belgium, a Western European Nation. Belgium is one of the most densely populated European countries.
How many miles of land does Belgium have?
Belgium also has some 40 miles (60 km) of shoreline on the North Sea. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.
What is the northern boundary of Belgium?
Its northern boundary is the Sambre-Meuse valley, which traverses Belgium from south-southwest to northeast. Situated south of the Ardennes and cut off from the rest of the country, Côtes Lorraines is a series of hills with north-facing scarps.
How high is Kempenland?
Lying between about 160 and 330 feet (50 and 100 metres) in elevation, the Kempenland contains pastureland and is the site of a number of industrial enterprises; it forms an irregular watershed of plateau and plain between the extensive Schelde and Meuse drainage systems.
What is the soil type of interior Flanders?
Interior Flanders comprises most of East and West Flanders and has sand- silt or sand soils. At an elevation of about 80 to 300 feet (25 to 90 metres), it is drained by the Leie, Schelde, and Dender rivers flowing northeastward to the Schelde estuary.
What is the Maritime Flanders?
Maritime Flanders, extending inland for about 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km), is a region of newly formed and reclaimed land (polders) protected by a line of dunes and dikes and having largely clay soils. Interior Flanders comprises most of East and West Flanders and has sand-silt or sand soils.
Where is the Ardennes region?
The Ardennes region is part of the Hercynian orogenic belt of mountain ranges, which reaches from western Ireland into Germany and was formed roughly 300 to 400 million years ago, during the Paleozoic Era. The Ardennes is a plateau cut deeply by the Meuse River and its tributaries.
When did Belgium become a federal state?
In the 1980s and ’90s, however, steps were taken to turn Belgium into a federal state with powers shared among the regions of Flanders, Wallonia, and the Brussels-Capital Region. Guild houses along the Lys River in Ghent, Belgium.
What is Belgium known for?
Belgium, a culturally rich country, is a part of western Europe and is known for being home to many medieval monuments. It is a small country with several grand festivals and events happening throughout the year. In fact, this diverse country is known for playing host to some of the most vivid and cheerful festivals in the world that lures in people from all around the globe! Anyone who gets a chance to witness these festivals in Belgium will surely be coming back for more in the year that follows. See the many vibrant festivities and celebrations that take place in this small country that shape its culture and give it such pleasing vibes!
What is the carnival in Belgium?
The Carnival in Belgium is celebrated in much the same way as Mardi Gras in New Orleans or the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. A colorful parade passes through the town wherein people wear fantastical costumes, most of them speaking against the social norms.
What is the best festival in Belgium?
Boombal Festival is the most appreciated folk dance festival in Belgium. The traditional folk music, written by the best local songwriters in Belgium, are presented here. There are several stalls in the Boombal Festival that offer some of the best vegetarian dishes from the local cuisine. Folk lovers from across the world come here to witness this incredible presentation of traditional folk music and dance. During the festival, the whole place gets lit up in colorful lights and the people gather around bonfires.
How many days after Easter does Belgium celebrate Ascension Day?
Ascension Day in Belgium falls 40 days after Easter and Catholics celebrate it with tremendous enthusiasm and vigor. It makes the day of the Ascension of Jesus for the people of the Christian religion and is somewhat celebrated the same way as Christmas, with feasts, music, masses, and more.
Is Halloween celebrated in Belgium?
Yes, Halloween is celebrated in a few villages of Belgium since the other villages focus more on the festivities around All Saints’ Day. However, Halloween is not celebrated the same way in Belgium as everywhere else in the world. On this day, you may find the people of Belgium lighting a candle in memory of a dead family member or relative.
Is Valentine's Day celebrated in Belgium?
Yes, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Belgium as well. Every year on the 14th of February, lots of candy, cards, and gifts are exchanged between lovers and many restaurants and pubs give out special deals to couples.
Is Belgium a country?
Belgium, a culturally rich country, is a part of western Europe and is known for being home to many medieval monuments. It is a small country with several grand festivals and events happening throughout the year. In fact, this diverse country is known for playing host to some of the most vivid and cheerful festivals in the world ...
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The Community
School
The Parent Experience
- This is an all-encompassing category because there are so many great events, activities and people that can be included here (it could actually be a post all by itself!). The parent experience includes everything under the umbrella of parent support classes – birth preparation classes, infant massage, breastfeeding and new mom support, and the dedicated midwife who helps all …
The Zoo
- One of Europe’s most popular zoos is located just 20 kilometers from SHAPE in the small village of Brugelette. Built on the site of a former Cistercian abbey, Pairi Daizaattracts nearly 2 million visitors per year. Trust us, you have NEVER been to a zoo quite like this one! It is a zoo, botanical garden, aquarium, and playground all rolled into one. As a resident of Belgium, you can obtain a …
History
- There is no shortage of historical sites to visit in Belgium – you can experience everything from Napoleonic era history at Waterloo to more recent WWI and WWII era sites and museums. Not only is it an incredible learning experience for the kids, but it also provides an opportunity to see places that you’ve likely only read about in history books. Even if you’re not a history buff, it is im…
Travel
- Naturally, one of the biggest and most obvious draws about being stationed in Europe is the opportunity to travel. Belgium is centrally located and many must-see places like Paris and Amsterdam are either within driving distance or a short train ride. Even so, beyond the obvious choices of Brussels and Bruges, there are countless places to see in and around Belgium. Trave…
Food
- OK, this is an obvious one! First, the world-famous Belgian beer. This tiny country has more than 200 breweries that collectively make about 3,000 different delicious beers, and they only export roughly 60 percent of their beer production. Belgium has an incredible brewing heritage and most beer fans will appreciate the famous Westvleteran Trappist beer, brewed by the monks of St. Six…
Cultural Immersion
- SHAPE is located in Wallonia, the French-speaking region of Belgium. While base housing is available, it is somewhat limited so most Americans live out in town on the economy. This means that you will truly experience Belgian life and culture more fully, but you may also encounter a bit of a language barrier (unless you’ve got some high school or c...
Overview
Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) is the military headquarters of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) Allied Command Operations (ACO) that commands all NATO operations worldwide. ACO's and SHAPE's commander is titled Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), a U.S. four-star general officer or flag officer who also serves as Commander, U.S. …
History
Since 1967 it has been located in Casteau, north of the Belgian city of Mons, but it had previously been located, from 1953, at Rocquencourt, next to Versailles, France. From 1951 to 2003, SHAPE was the headquarters of Allied Command Europe (ACE). Since 2003 it has been the headquarters of Allied Command Operations, controlling all NATO operations worldwide.
Structure
The NATO Military Command Structure consists of two strategic commands, directed by the International Military Staff:
The commands under SACEUR - Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum, Allied Joint Force Command Naples and Joint Force Command Norfolk are Operational Level Commands, while Headquarters Allied Air Command, Headq…
In popular culture
Ian Fleming referenced SHAPE in his short-story 'From a View to a Kill', collected as part of For Your Eyes Only.
In the film Private Benjamin, Goldie Hawn's character negotiates an assignment to SHAPE.
See also
• Western Union, SHAPE's precursor
• Operational headquarters of the European Union
• Berlin Plus agreement
• NATO Special Operations Headquarters [de] (NSHQ)
Further reading
• Hackett, John. "NATO's Supreme Allied Commanders on Parade." Parameters 18, no. 2 (1988): 2.
• Jordan, Robert S. Norstad: Cold War NATO Supreme Commander – Airman, Strategist, Diplomat St. Martin's Press, 2000. 350 pp.
• Jordan, Robert S., ed. Generals in International Politics: NATO's Supreme Allied Commander, Europe. University Press of Kentucky, 1987.
External links
• Official website
• How SHAPE took SHAPE (from NATO's website)
• Allied Command Operation SitRep
• The New NATO Force Structure