“Who was this Commandant de Robien” you might wonder as we stand here at Montée Commandant de Robien. Let’s uncover the story behind this street’s namesake.
Montée Commandant de Robien is more than just a street. It is a tribute to a man of courage and conviction. Guy Léon Marie de Robien was born in Le Foeil in 1857.
Guy de Robien’s family belonged to the Breton nobility. They originally used the name Roc-Bihan. In the 16th century they changed it to Robien.
Guy de Robien embarked on a military career. He graduated from Saint-Cyr in 1877. For thirty-five years he served in various garrisons in southern France. He became a lieutenant in 1883. Three years later he was promoted to captain.
In 1899 Guy de Robien was named Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur. This high honor recognized his service as a captain. He served as adjutant-major in the 108th line regiment. By 1905, he had risen to the rank of chef de bataillon. This was another term for commander. He served in the 20th line regiment and later the 1st Zouave regiment. He was then elevated to Officer of the Legion of Honor.
In 1907, at the age of 50, Guy de Robien retired. He had served for thirty years. He fell in love with Provence. He bought the Château de la Rousse. He planned to live there in retirement.
But fate had other plans for Commandant de Robien. In 1914, at 57, he volunteered for service again. He became a lieutenant-colonel in the 26th Infantry Regiment. His bravery was evident in the battles of December 8, 9, and 10, 1914.
On January 5, 1915, Guy de Robien met his end. He led his Zouaves into battle at Roclincourt. Waving his cane, he cried “En avant, mes enfants!” He fell on the field of honor.
He is buried in the National Cemetery of Maroeuil. His name is on the war memorial of Saint-Menet.
The heroic story does not end there. In 1917, Guy de Robien’s son published a book. It was titled “L’Idéal français dans un coeur breton, l’héroïque commandant de Robien”. It chronicled his father’s life. The book gave many details about the life of the Comte. It also described his time at the Château Saint-Antoine. He called it his “oasis”.
His son, Comte Guy de Robien, asked the city of Paris to name a street after his father. Instead, Marseille honored him. This street, Montée Commandant de Robien, stands as a lasting reminder of his courage and dedication.
Even his nephew was a hero. Alain de Robien was arrested in 1943. He participated in the Buckmaster resistance network. He died in Flossenbürg in 1945. His wife Marie survived deportation for the same reason.
So, as we stand on Montée Commandant de Robien remember Guy Léon Marie de Robien. He was a soldier, a leader, and a hero. This street is a fitting tribute to his life of service and sacrifice.