France and the US: An Alliance Forged in Victory and Sacrifice
The France-US alliance is as old as the United States itself. The 20th century was the ultimate test of this bond and proved its strength. In WWI, 2,000,000 US soldiers had joined the fight in France by 1918 and were instrumental in the brutal final months of battle that led to Allied victory. In WWII, the commitment to defending French soil was just as steadfast. Yet, while we all remember D-Day as the greatest moment of American courage and military might in aiding France, the US was instrumental in multiple offensives that ultimately led to the Liberation of France in 1944.
The Liberation of France began early in the morning on June 6th, 1944, D-Day, when 156,000 Allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy, including 73,000 US soldiers, beginning the largest invasion by water in history. As Allied troops made hard-won headway into France over the next months, a second beach invasion was launched on August 15 in Provence. Carrying the momentum inland, Paris was finally freed on August 25th, 1944.
The liberation of France during World War II would never have been possible without the courageous efforts of the Allied troops. The logistic, technological, and man-power advantages provided by the Allies allowed for major disruption of the power dynamics through a massive and coordinated multinational force. Yet the bravery and sacrifice of individual soldiers was indispensable.
Facing intense enemy fire, rough seas, and difficult terrain, these troops demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience. Their relentless efforts in the face of overwhelming odds enabled the initial beachhead to be established, which was crucial for subsequent operations that eventually led to the liberation of Paris and the rest of France. These operations underscored the strength of the US-French alliance, a partnership rooted in the shared values of liberty, democracy, and human rights.
The collaboration between American and French forces during World War II laid the groundwork for a relationship that continues to thrive. This bond is evident in numerous cultural, economic, and military partnerships that enhance global stability and prosperity. To celebrate this continued friendship and honor the sacrifices made by US and French soldiers, President Biden will make his first state visit to France this week, where he will attend the commemoration ceremonies.
Today, international giving remains one of the strongest tools to reinforce the relationship between all French and US citizens united by shared history and memory. Many French organizations and nonprofits continue the legacy of service, and honor those who fought for freedom. Friends of Fondation de France proudly supports several important associations who continue to keep the spirit of sacrifice and heroism alive.
Mission Libération: Preserving memory and honoring fallen heroes
The key actor dedicated to commemorating this legacy is Mission Libération. Officially known as the Mission for the 80th Anniversary Commemoration of the Normandy Landings, the Liberation of France, and Victory in Europe, this organization spearheads the promotional efforts for the 2024-2025 commemorative program taking place on the Normandy beaches where the invasions took place. Under the leadership of Philippe Etienne, former French ambassador to the United States, and guided by General (2S) Michel Delion and Prefect Fabien Sudry, Mission Libération orchestrates a diverse array of events and initiatives to honor those who fought and suffered for freedom.
The ceremonies for the Normandy beach landings will begin on June 5th, with an homage to the French Special Air Service and the civilian victims of war in Haras de Saint-Lô and Manche. On June 6th, a commemoration for Allied troops will take place in Ver-sur-Mer for British troops, in Courseulles-sur-Mer for Canadian troops, and in Colleville-sur-Mer for American troops. A joint, international ceremony will take place on Omaha Beach. On June 7th, a day of public ceremonies will tour through Bayeux, Cherbourg, and Calvados.
The 80th anniversary commemorations will honor both Allied and French veterans of the Normandy and Provence Beach Landing operations, including 140 US veterans. Mission Libération’s commemoration initiatives also include a call for testimonials from the children of the Liberation, support for archival collections, and the launch of a certification label for local initiatives. These activities aim to preserve and transmit the collective memory of the Liberation events, ensuring that the bravery and sacrifices of the past are remembered by future generations.
Musée de la Libération: A celebration of freedom
The Musée de la Libération de Paris (the Museum of the Liberation of Paris) plays a vital role in preserving and showcasing the history of the Liberation of Paris and the broader efforts that contributed to the end of World War II. Founded to commemorate the liberation of the French capital in August 1944, the museum provides a comprehensive look at the events leading up to the liberation and the aftermath of the war.
The museum is home to key exhibits such as personal artifacts from Resistance fighters, photographs, and historical documents that offer visitors an intimate glimpse into the lives of those who fought for freedom. One of its notable exhibitions, “Paris Brûle-t-il? Quand le cinéma réinvente la Libération,” explores how cinema has portrayed the Liberation of Paris, providing a unique lens through which visitors can engage with this historic event. The museum’s dedication to education and remembrance makes it an essential resource for the community and visitors alike, fostering a deeper understanding of this pivotal period in history.
Foyer d’entraide de la Légion étrangère – Giving back to international service veterans
The importance of international collaboration and foreign service remains deeply important to France. The Foyer d’entraide de la Légion étrangère (Mutual Aid Center of the Foreign Legion) assists those who have bravely and generously served in the French Foreign Legion. The French Foreign Legion was created in 1831 to allow foreign nationals to serve in the French Army. Today, it is composed of 8,000 men who serve around the world under the French flag, often facing some of the most challenging terrain and conditions in military service.
The Foyer d’entraide de la Légion étrangère (FELE) is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to both active-duty and former foreign legionnaires, as well as their families. This support encompasses material, administrative, and financial aid, ensuring that those facing physical, mental, or material hardships are not left alone. FELE also focuses on social reintegration for legionnaires returning to civilian life, offering essential guidance through medical and social challenges. Furthermore, FELE collaborates with judicial authorities to protect vulnerable adults and preserves the rich heritage of the Legion through initiatives like the Foreign Legion Uniform Museum. The museum, part of FELE’s heritage initiatives, preserves and showcases the history and uniforms of the Legion, providing a tangible link to its storied past.
Supporting the Legacy
Friends of Fondation de France is honored to support these impactful organizations which give American donors a unique opportunity to contribute to the preservation and commemoration of this shared history, honoring the sacrifices made in the name of liberty. By supporting nonprofits like these, donors help ensure that the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom are never forgotten.
As we draw closer to the grand commemorations, we invite you to learn more about these incredible organizations and consider making a tax-deductible donation to support their efforts. Together, we can honor the past and inspire future generations to uphold the values that define our nations. Visit our website to learn more about how you can support these initiatives and keep the memory of these monumental events alive.
