Meeting with Néo, a young enthusiast at the service of History

How did you develop this passion for the history of the Second World War?

Rencontre avec Néo, jeune passionné au service de l'Histoire

I was in my third year of secondary school when I embarked on a wonderful adventure, namely going to meet the last resistance fighters, combatants and victims of the Second World War.

What is your connection with Marius Bogliolo?

I met Marius Bogliolo five years ago, on the day of the Liberation of La Valette, at the end of the ceremony. I immediately asked him if he would agree to let me visit him to collect his testimony. He was quite surprised, it must be said, to be approached by a 15-year-old schoolboy. But he gladly accepted. And, over time, we formed a friendly relationship. Naturally, when I was contacted by the ONAC, which wanted to track down the last 39-45 combatants to get them the Légion d'honneur, I sent them the documents in my possession.

Being by his side on the day he was awarded his Légion d'honneur must have been a special moment?

Indeed, for me, it was a special moment. Being by his side on such a symbolic day brought up a lot of emotions. I had the great honour of giving a speech after the mayor to trace his journey. Marius was very happy and moved to receive this decoration, which honors a lifetime dedicated to his country.

What are your plans?

The publication of testimonies in which the transcripts of my interviews can be found. Through this collection, at my level, I hope to engrave these testimonies—which are recorded and filmed—in marble, and to play a part in passing on this memory, which is so essential nowadays!