A heritage without direct witnesses

In his moral report, President François Bonin of the Amicale Régimentaire des Anciens du 1er Groupe des Commandos d'Afrique et du 3ème Groupement de Choc drew up the balance sheet of a year rich in commemorations, while emphasizing the urgency of memory transmission as the last direct witnesses pass away.

The last witnesses are passing away

Time has taken its toll, and to its knowledge, the association no longer counts any veterans who participated in the Débarquement de Provence.

Only Jean Cornuau, a doctor who enlisted in April 1945 and is now 101 years old, remains the living link to this heroic era.

The recent passing of Jean-Pierre Large, president of the Provence 44 association and Commando d'honneur, left a strong impression, reminding everyone of the fragility of embodied memory.

Thus, President Bonin's message is urgent: "If we forget those who died for their country, then they die a second time."

An appeal to the younger generation

The challenge now is to ensure the succession. Created by and for the Commandos, the association has seen its ranks thin out, with the "Commandos d'Honneur" appointed by the survivors growing old in turn. The future therefore rests on the shoulders of the descendants.

François Bonin made a vibrant appeal to the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren of the soldiers: "It seems normal to me and therefore desirable that members of the commandos' families join the board of the association in the coming years: think about it, do not hesitate, join us! We are one big family."

Initiatives to bring history to life

Moreover, the association is multiplying initiatives to bring the history of the Commandos d'Afrique to life. The August ceremonies were, as every year, a success, thanks to the support of the municipalities, the Département, and the Région, as well as the participation of historical reenactment associations such as Provence 44 and Mémoire Bormes 44.

The memory extends beyond Provence. In the Vosges and Alsace, where the Commandos distinguished themselves in the winter of 1944-1945, the Mémoire du Lion association, based in Belfort, participates in commemorations in period uniforms, proudly displaying a Commandos pennant made with the association's agreement.

Finally, Michel Baudet, son of Staff Sergeant Jean Baudet, has completed writing a collective narrative to give voice to the Commandos. The association is looking for a publisher and funding to make this essential publication a reality.