Bunker E13bis

In 1935, the canals around Mol became part of the "Advanced Position" and the construction of the bunkers began. Most of them were built between 1937 and 1939. There are various types of bunkers, each with its specific construction and equipment. Along the Dessel-Schoten canal, we indeed find different types; most of them are bank bunkers. They were not designed for long-term stays: soldiers did not remain there for more than a few days. There was no sanitation or sleeping space. From this bunker, called E13bis, Captain Commander Léon Populair had to command the troops in the bunkers. For defense, this bunker was equipped with 2 Maxim machine guns (type M1908) that could each fire 400 shots per minute. A replica of this type of machine gun can be viewed in the visitor area of the Sas4 Tower. There were also barriers with barbed wire and minefields surrounding the construction. The hand grenade hatches next to the door and on the front wall provided the opportunity to eliminate infiltrating enemies. To observe the surroundings, there was a periscope provided in the roof. On May 12 and 13, 1940, the enemy made several attempts to take bunker E13bis. All attacks were repelled by the Belgian and French troops. Only the German army incurred losses in this. Lieutenant General Six, commander of the 18th Infantry Division, later wrote the following:

"The example set by Commander L. Populair is one of calmness and composure. When the situation became critical, he strengthened the position, accompanied by a few soldiers. Under enemy fire, he defended Bridge II at the Turnhout canal. His intervention contributed to the success of the defense of the bridge.

Bunker E13bis is part of the bunker walk and the themed walk "On the Road with Sergeant Gilbert" and can only be visited under the guidance of a guide.

Source: Information board on the door of bunker E13bis

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