A defense and memory focus for the Service National Universel (SNU)

These structures intervene effectively within the framework of the "Defense and memory" focus of the program. This cohesion stay took place in the La Bayette holiday center, allowing partners to pursue their roadmap since this "defense focus" is one of the themes offered during the SNU cohesion stay.

MILITARY HISTORY OF FRANCE

"This theme aims to deepen knowledge of the military and carry out solidarity actions to perpetuate memorial activities. It offers young people the opportunity to discover the military history of their country, understand defense issues, and develop a civic spirit," recalls Nicolas Moulin, president of the association Histoire et Patrimoine de la Gendarmerie (ACSPMG). During this final phase, Warrant Officer Nicolas Moulin, assistant to the head of the Service Réserve Jeunesse of the groupement de la gendarmerie du Var and departmental recruitment coordinator, was accompanied by reserve gendarme Mathieu Cosmano.

The warrant officer adds: "Several patriotic and memorial associations intervene at the request of the center director, and we would like, together with all the partners, to thank the management team and supervisors for their welcome." During the traditional Sunday meeting, the young people gathered around the French flag for the traditional raising of the colors, in the presence of 3 flag-bearers representing patriotic associations (Souvenir Français of the Pierrefeu-du-Var committee, Ouvéa committee, and Histoire et Patrimoine de la Gendarmerie). Then, the trainees moved on to the first part of the stay. It was led by Vincent Dujarric, General Delegate of the Souvenir Français of the Var. He was accompanied by Colette Cateni, president of the Souvenir Français of Pierrefeu-du-Var, and 3 flag-bearers (Daniel, Françoise, and Chantal). "The young people followed a presentation on memorial actions and the duties of flag-bearers, information highly appreciated by the audience. For its part, Histoire et Patrimoine de la Gendarmerie (ACSPMG) presented a film on the Débarquement de Provence and the role of the gendarmerie in the resistance," continues Nicolas Moulin. This documentary screening generated a great deal of interest from the trainees and many questions.

SNU AND GENDARMERIE

Mathieu shared his experience as a reserve gendarme, which started after a stint with the SNU: "I did the SNU during my cohesion stay. Then, during the second phase, I signed up to continue this wonderful adventure. I discovered the gendarmerie during a 15-day internship thanks to supervisors who are passionate about their work. This is what motivated me to join the operational reserve." He adds: "I have carried out many missions, both in the Var and in other departments, and I have just passed, not without a certain pride, the gendarmerie non-commissioned officer exam. I am waiting for incorporation." And Warrant Officer Moulin concluded: "Our presence serves to encourage young people to find their path and engage in projects such as phase 2, with an immersion within the gendarmerie. Young volunteers have the opportunity to carry out their mission of general interest in partnership with the association des Cadets de la gendarmerie. Enough to inspire callings! Mathieu is the perfect example." Finally, Viret, the stay director, assisted by Laurent Labeaune, the two participating classes met in front of the flag pole for a very beautiful ceremony. As a reward for their commitment to memory, the young trainees and supervisors of the SNU received the "Certificat d'engagement de gardien de la mémoire", which was presented to them by Vincent Dujarric, Colette Cateni, and Nicolas Moulin.