UNPRG strengthens the intergenerational and memorial bond

It was in the friendly setting of the Domaine du Mas du Pourret in Pierrefeu-du-Var that the gendarmerie retirees of the Hyères sector met on February 7th. This annual general meeting of the Union Nationale des Personnels et Retraités de la Gendarmerie (UNPRG) was a privileged moment to review past actions and reaffirm the core values of the institution. Beyond the statutory aspects, this meeting highlighted the vitality of an association that places people and memory at the center of its concerns.

SYNERGY OF ACTIVE AND RETIRED MEMBERS The meeting took place in the presence of local and military figures, demonstrating the association's strong roots in the region. Lieutenant d'Harreville, commander of the Pierrefeu-Cuers and Collobrières brigade community, honored the assembly with his presence. "His participation was welcomed by the audience as it symbolized the indestructible link uniting active-duty gendarmes with their elders," remarked Adjudant Nicolas Moulin, president of the Association des Collectionneurs pour la Sauvegarde du Patrimoine de la Maréchaussée et de la Gendarmerie (ACSPMG).

Joseph Sinigaglia, departmental president of the UNPRG, and Michel Hainiques, municipal councillor and defense correspondent, were also present to support the members. This meeting illustrated the synergy that exists between the different generations of gendarmes. These relationships, based on mutual respect and continuity of service, are demonstrated throughout the year by regular exchanges and a joint presence at patriotic ceremonies.

"During the presentation of the moral and activity reports, Henri Bannwarth, president of the Hyères sector, highlighted a highly satisfactory annual report. The past year was marked by a particular intensity on the memorial front. The association was able to mobilize its troops, as shown by the many appearances of the section's flag," added Mr.

Moulin. He continued: "The latter was taken out no fewer than 25 times during commemorations and official tributes. A notable and hopeful fact for the future, some of these ceremonies saw the participation of gendarmerie cadets alongside retirees.

This passing of the memorial torch to the youth is one of the pillars of the UNPRG's actions, ensuring the sustainability of remembrance and republican values."

SOLIDARITY AND COMMITMENT But the association does not just look to the past. It acts concretely for the well-being of its members on a daily basis. Solidarity was expressed through actions in favor of the institution's widows, with the distribution of year-end parcels, a mission carried out with dedication by the sector delegates.

Thus, the annual general meeting was an opportunity to honor those who invest themselves tirelessly in the association's life. A highlight marked the session with the presentation of three UNPRG distinctions. Michel Verdier, faithful flag bearer, Gérard Guedg, and Michel Arcidiacono saw their commitment and dedication rewarded, to the warm applause of all participants.

Then, President Bannwarth recalled the importance of the partnership established with the Association des Collectionneurs pour la Sauvegarde du Patrimoine de la Maréchaussée et de la Gendarmerie. Represented at this meeting by Daniel Baert and Alain Maurin, the ACSPMG has been working since its creation in 2007 to promote the history and traditions of the Force. This close bond, which has lasted for nearly two decades, allows for a combination of social action and the preservation of historical heritage.

For this new year, the outlook for the UNPRG of the Hyères sector remains ambitious, as it involves continuing memorial outings, further strengthening ties with the active-duty gendarmerie, and working tirelessly to pass on the memory.