The August 15 2024 will mark a memorable date in the context of the celebrations for the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of France. On this occasion, Emmanuel Macron will travel to Var to pay tribute to those who fought for freedom. This solemn moment will serve as an opportunity to remind us of the importance of the sacrifices made by the heroes of the past, particularly those from the former French colonies, who played a crucial role in this heroic chapter of history. The ceremony planned in Saint-Raphaël promises to be a vibrant and emotional tribute to the memory of these valiant soldiers.
On August 15, 2024, a significant moment will take place in the contemporary history of France as President Emmanuel Macron will go to Var to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Provence landings. During this ceremony, he will honor the heroes of the Liberation while highlighting the crucial role of soldiers from former French colonies who fought bravely. This commemoration, filled with emotion and acknowledgment, aims to honor the sacrifice of those who participated in freeing the country from the grip of the Nazi regime.
A Return to the Past: The Provence Landings
On August 15, 1944, the beaches of Var were the scene of a decisive event in the history of World War II. Around 100,000 soldiers, primarily from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, landed on these shores to pave the way for over 250,000 soldiers of the “B” army, largely consisting of troops from former French colonies in Africa. This episode, often overshadowed by other D-Days, nonetheless represented a major turning point in the fight against Nazism, allowing France to claim a place among the victors of the war.
A Tribute to the Fighters from Former Colonies
During the ceremony, President Macron plans to pay special attention to the fighters from former colonies of France. These soldiers, often referred to as “indigenous” at the time, played a crucial role in the operations carried out in Provence. Indeed, the “B” Army that participated in the fighting was made up of soldiers from Algeria, Morocco, as well as pieds-noirs, members of the Free French Forces, and Corsicans. This tribute is an important act of recognition, highlighting the significance of the commitment of these forces in service to the homeland.
The Presence of African Leaders for an Enhanced Tribute
The Élysée announced that a high-level African participation will be present at the commemoration, particularly at the necropolis in Boulouris, where 464 soldiers who fell during the liberation of France in 1944 are buried. These exchanges between nations are crucial, especially at a time when relations between France and certain regions of Africa, such as Niger and Mali, have been tested. The ceremony aims not only to honor the past but also to strengthen ties with these countries today.
Honorary Distinctions and Historical Speeches
President Macron will also award the Legion of Honor to six veterans, thus demonstrating a deserved recognition of those who served under the French uniform. Amid emotions and the duty of remembrance, an African leader will speak at this poignant event. The ceremony will reflect on painful memories, such as the tragedy of Thiaroye in December 1944, where African soldiers were killed while demanding their ancestral rights. This illustrates the need for a proper understanding of history so that such events are never forgotten.
A Symbolic Gathering for the Future
Beyond the official commemorations, these celebrations reflect a collective will to remember and respect those who sacrificed their lives for freedom. On this memorable day, Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron will also visit Bormes-les-Mimosas on August 17 to honor the liberation of this town. These moments of gathering and tribute are bridges between the past and the future, reminding every generation of the importance of unity and respect for human rights, regardless of country of origin.
- Event: Commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the Liberation
- Date: August 15, 2024
- Location: Var, Saint-Raphaël
- President: Emmanuel Macron
- Tribute: Fighters from former French colonies
- Participants: Six veterans receiving the Legion of Honor
- “B” Army: Approximately 250,000 soldiers, including 130,000 from colonies
- Speech: Address by an African president
- Remembering: Recall of “Muslim” soldiers from Algeria and Morocco
- Memorial Site: Necropolis of Boulouris
