In La Valette-du-Var, the military medal flag entrusted to Histoire et Patrimoine de la Gendarmerie
Following its dissolution, the military medal recipients association of La Valette-du-Var bequeathed its flag to the ACSPMG association.
An emblem is never just a simple piece of fabric. It is the repository of history, commitment, and the memory of those who served under its colors.
It is in this spirit of respect and continuity that a flag transmission ceremony was held in La Valette-du-Var. The event officialized the transfer of the flag from the recently dissolved military medal recipients association of the commune to the ACSPMG association (Histoire et Patrimoine de la Gendarmerie), tasked with perpetuating its legacy.
The ceremony, sober and solemn, took place at the stele erected opposite the Médaille Militaire roundabout. It brought together the key figures of this transfer: the presidents of the two associations, Jean Hugues and Nicolas Moulin, accompanied by Marcel Pecouyoul and Gilbert Truc for the dissolved association, and Richard Maisonnave, head of military history for the ACSPMG.
A symbol of transmission
The presence of Dimitri, a gendarmerie cadet, gave a special dimension to this ceremony. Representing the next generation, his participation materialized the unbreakable link between the memory of veterans and the younger generations, who bear the responsibility of keeping the values of the institution alive in the future.
This passing of the torch aimed to illustrate that memory is not a mere preservation of the past, but an active transmission to the future. During the event, Jean Hugues solemnly handed the flag over to Richard Maisonnave.
The leaders of both entities emphasized that an administrative dissolution must under no circumstances mean forgetting the history and sacrifices that the emblem represents. By entrusting their flag to the ACSPMG, the former members wanted to guarantee the longevity of their legacy. To formalize this commitment, an agreement was signed, recording the custody of the flag and the mission of remembrance associated with it.
A second life for the flag
"This transmission offers a second life to this flag, which highlights the prestigious military medal. It will be preserved with the greatest respect, in accordance with its status as a memorial symbol. Far from remaining in the shadows, it is destined to accompany, whenever possible, the patriotic and commemorative ceremonies in which the ACSPMG will participate. Its visible presence will continue to recall the commitment of those who served the Nation, helping to maintain the duty of remembrance among the general public and more particularly among young people. This act is part of the mission of the ACSPMG association, which works to preserve the historical and memorial heritage of the Gendarmerie nationale. By collecting, protecting, and promoting emblems, traditions, and testimonies, the association strives to transmit the core values of the Arm: loyalty, courage, dedication, and a sense of service. This ceremony reminds us that a flag, as long as it is honored, remains a powerful link between the past, the present, and the future," concludes Nicolas Moulin, president of Histoire et Patrimoine de la Gendarmerie.
Nicolas TUDORT (Text and photos)