A young life cut short. That’s what this Guy Basseau Plaque whispers. It stands unassuming at 33 rue de Bièvre in Paris. This simple plaque marks the spot where Guy Basseau fell. He was a young member of the French Forces of the Interior. He died fighting for the liberation of Paris on August 22 1944.
Guy’s story is one of courage. He was born in Tillac in the Gers region in 1926. His family moved to Paris in 1940. Guy grew up in the Latin Quarter. He was a bright student at the Lycée Henri-IV. But the Occupation ignited a fire in him. He couldn’t stand idly by. His father a veteran of the Great War instilled patriotism. His cousin’s experience as a teacher dismissed by Vichy further fueled his resolve.
The Lycée Henri-IV itself was a hub of resistance activity. Tracts were hidden in its cellars. Students were involved in clandestine activities. Guy was privy to this underground world. He received regular updates from the clandestine newspaper Défense de la France. He was deeply affected by the massacre of his fellow students. These students were executed by the Germans for resisting the occupation.
The insurrection arrived. Guy joined the FFI in the 5th arrondissement on August 13 1944. He fought bravely on the barricades. He faced German tanks with only grenades and firebombs. His bravery cost him his life. He was just eighteen years old. He died at the corner of rue de Bièvre and Boulevard Saint-Germain. He was fighting against the tanks stationed near the Luxembourg Gardens.
Guy’s sacrifice wasn’t in vain. He was posthumously awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Medal of the Resistance. General Koenig cited him for bravery. His name lives on at this plaque. It is a reminder of the young people who gave their lives for freedom. Their courage should never be forgotten. This Guy Basseau Plaque stands as a testament to their sacrifice. It serves as a powerful reminder of the price of liberty.