Mémorial de la France combattante

Nestled on the slopes of Mont Valérien in Suresnes, France, the Mémorial de la France combattante stands as a solemn tribute to the brave souls who fought, resisted, and perished during the tumultuous years of World War II. This poignant monument commemorates the French combatants, resistance fighters, and deportees who faced execution by the occupying German forces. A visit here is not just an exploration of history, but a deeply moving experience that connects you with the indomitable spirit of those who stood up against oppression.

The History of the Memorial

The origins of the memorial are steeped in the harrowing events of World War II. During the German occupation, the fortress of Mont Valérien became a site of execution for over a thousand resistance fighters and hostages. Among these martyrs were notable figures like Honoré d'Estienne d'Orves and the twenty-two members of the Manouchian Group. The site is marked by a stark reminder of the 4,500 individuals who were executed here, a number that remains etched in the collective memory of the nation.

On June 18, 1946, General Charles de Gaulle paid homage to the massacred and executed at this very spot, a tradition that continues annually. Each year on June 18, a ceremony is held to commemorate de Gaulle's historic call to arms, urging the French to resist defeat and continue the fight against the enemy. This day has since been designated as the National Day of Commemoration of the Appeal of 18 June.

In November 1946, under the direction of Henri Frenay, then Minister of Prisoners, Deportees, and Refugees, fifteen bodies of combatants from France and its colonies were interred in a provisional crypt. This act was inspired by the symbolism of the Unknown Soldier from World War I, but adapted to honor the diverse categories of fighters from World War II, including those from the Free French Forces, the resistance, and the colonies.

Exploring the Memorial

The esplanade of the memorial spans over 1,000 square meters, dominated by a 150-meter-long wall of pink Vosges sandstone. This wall is a striking backdrop to the monumental Cross of Lorraine, standing 12 meters tall and marking the entrance to the crypt. The Cross of Lorraine, a symbol of the Free French Forces, bears an inscription from de Gaulle's June 18 Appeal: WHATEVER HAPPENS, THE FLAME OF RESISTANCE WILL NOT BE EXTINGUISHED. June 18, 1940, Charles DE GAULLE.

Visitors are drawn to the eternal flame that burns in front of the cross, a powerful symbol of remembrance. Along the wall, sixteen bronze sculptures, reminiscent of Greek metopes, depict various forms of combat and resistance during the liberation of France. Each sculpture tells a unique story, from the liberation of Alsace to the heroic actions of the maquisards (rural resistance fighters).

The Crypt and Its Heroes

Within the crypt lie seventeen tombs, arranged in a semicircle. These tombs honor twelve military personnel, including soldiers from North and West Africa and members of the Free French Forces, as well as five internal resistance fighters. The center of the crypt holds an urn containing ashes collected from concentration camps, adorned with a metal sculpture symbolizing an eternal flame.

The crypt's interred heroes include figures like Diasso Kal Boutie, a Senegalese rifleman killed in 1940, and Edmond Grethen, a resistance fighter executed by the Japanese in Indochina. The most recent addition is Hubert Germain, the last Companion of the Liberation, who was laid to rest here in November 2021. The crypt is a place of profound reverence, where the sacrifices of these brave individuals are eternally honored.

The Sixteen Sculptures

The sixteen sculptures along the memorial wall are each crafted by different artists, capturing the essence of various battles and acts of resistance. From the liberation of Paris to the perilous journeys of the French Air Forces, these artworks provide a visual narrative of the diverse and courageous efforts that contributed to France's liberation. Notable pieces include the depiction of the Casabianca submarine's daring escape and the symbolic representation of the phoenix rising from the ashes, symbolizing the rebirth of Alençon.

A Center for Reflection and Education

In 2009, a visitor center was established, providing educational resources and guided tours of the memorial path within the fortress. This center serves as a hub for learning and reflection, offering insights into the historical significance of Mont Valérien and the broader context of World War II. The memorial attracts around 33,000 visitors annually, with half of these visits being educational trips for school groups, ensuring that the legacy of these heroes is passed on to future generations.

In conclusion, the Mémorial de la France combattante is not just a monument; it is a testament to the resilience and bravery of those who fought for freedom. It stands as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made and the enduring spirit of resistance that defines the French nation. A visit here is an opportunity to honor the past, reflect on the present, and be inspired by the unwavering courage of those who came before us.