During the war, Ferdinand joined a local resistance group in Varsenare that was part of the Secret Army. He also founded and led his own resistance group in Zedelgem. Tragedy struck in the summer of 1944 when the German Secret Field Police raided the home of Alberic Pulinckx, leader of the Varsenare resistance. The Germans occupied the house for several days, arresting anyone who came by. Ferdinand, who visited the house a few days later, was captured and never returned to his wife and children.
After his arrest, Ferdinand proved himself a true war hero. By sacrificing himself, he saved the lives of his wife and the members of the Zedelgem resistance group, whose involvement remained hidden from the Germans. He was imprisoned in Bruges until September 1, 1944. His family never saw him again. Though the Allies were advancing rapidly, Ferdinand was transferred to Ghent and then deported to Neuengamme, where he died on January 14, 1945.
