How about a visit to a place that many foreigners travel to Belgium to see? We are now in Mollem. It is a village that was once its own municipality. It is now part of Asse in Flemish Brabant.
Mollem offers a unique glimpse into Belgian life. It has a famous bar called “Rie van Pol.” This bar has remained unchanged for years. Many visitors come to Mollem specifically to visit this special place.
Mollem also has a railway station. It is on the line between Jette and Dendermonde. This makes Mollem easily accessible from other cities. The hamlet of Bollebeek is also near the village.
Mollem’s history extends beyond its charming village atmosphere. The Mollem Communal Cemetery holds two Commonwealth burials. These date back to the Second World War. The British Expeditionary Force fought in Belgium during the German invasion in May 1940. They suffered many casualties during the withdrawal to Dunkirk.
The cemetery is about 17 kilometers northwest of Brussels. It is three kilometers north of the main road to Gent. The Commonwealth graves are in the southeastern part of the cemetery.
Among those buried here are Warrant Officer Class III William Tipping. He was part of the 15th/19th The King’s Royal Hussars. He died on May 18, 1940, aged 35. Second Lieutenant John Alexander Wood is also buried here. He was from the 4th Bn. Gordon Highlanders. He died on the same day, aged 28.
Mollem offers a blend of everyday Belgian life and historical significance. From the unchanging Rie van Pol bar to the solemn war graves, Mollem tells many stories. Take a moment to imagine life in Mollem. Think about the locals and the many visitors from abroad. They come to experience its unique charm.