Doesn’t the name Rue Jules Châtenay sound distinguished? It should. This street in Pierrefitte-Sur-Seine carries the name of a man who exemplified courage. Let’s walk together and I will tell you his story.
Rue Jules Châtenay is more than just an address. It is a place connected to Parisian public transit. Buses and light rails pass near here. The RER also has a station within walking distance.
But who was Jules Châtenay? Jules Joseph Chatenay was born in 1881. He married Isidorine Marie Eugénie Frangeul in 1905. Later, he remarried Renée Charlotte Brotier in 1911.
In 1914, he was kept in the corps for two years. This was while awaiting his nomination to a reserved position. Then war broke out. Jules left as an adjutant and became a sub-lieutenant.
Tragedy struck on September 20, 1914. Jules was wounded by a bullet to the head. This happened during fighting at the Ferme du Temple in Craonne. News of his injury spread.
The newspaper La Charente-Inférieure reported the incident on October 3. They did not know which hospital he had been taken to. Eugène Decout, the Mayor of La Rochelle, sent a letter. He requested information about Jules. Sadly, Jules had already died.
An announcement appeared in L’Écho Rochelais on October 21, 1914. It informed of the death of Joseph Chatenay. He died on the field of honor. He succumbed to his wounds on September 25. This happened at the Roucy ambulance station.
Another notice was published. This was in La Charente-Inférieure on October 24, 1914. It announced a mass for the repose of his soul.
Jules Chatenay was cited in the Journal Officiel on December 26, 1919. He was described as an excellent officer. He showed remarkable energy and bravery. He was an inspiring leader. He was wounded in action during a reconnaissance mission. This occurred near the Temple farm. He died from his injuries. He received the Croix de Guerre with palm.
Jules Chatenay’s name is inscribed on monuments. These are in Les Portes and in churches. These include the village church and Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
So, as we stand on Rue Jules Châtenay remember his sacrifice. Remember his bravery and dedication. This street is a testament to a life cut short in service to his country. It reminds us of the human cost of war. May his memory live on.