“Who were the Hautière brothers?” That’s the question this stele silently poses. This is the À la mémoire des frères Hautière Stele. It stands as a tribute to two brothers who gave their lives for France.
The À la mémoire des frères Hautière Stele is located in Vincennes. You can find it in the Square des Frères-Hautière. This small green space sits beside the Notre-Dame de Vincennes church. The stele has been here since 1957. It was first inaugurated in 1949.
Bernard Hautière was born in 1912. He served as a lieutenant in an aviation group. Sadly Bernard died in aerial combat on October 11 1939. This happened in Blienvald Germany.
Jean Hautière was born in 1916. He became a naval lieutenant. Jean was killed in action on April 11 1945. This happened in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. He was leading tanks to attack Plan Carral. Jean commanded a tank group in the 2nd Marine Rifle Regiment.
Jean Hautière entered service in 1935. By October 1 1937 he was a midshipman of the 2nd class. He participated in the Jeanne d’Arc campaign of 1937-1938. He became a 1st class midshipman on October 1 1939. Jean served as a rifle officer in 1940. He rose to the rank of lieutenant commander on December 2 1943.
Lieutenant Commander Hautière received a citation. It was by General Order on December 11 1944. The citation recognized his contribution to restoring a situation. This was during an enemy tank counterattack. It happened at Bourbach-le-Bas on November 30 1944. The citation awarded him the War Cross with a silver star. At his death he was an intelligence officer. He served in the 1st Marine Rifle Regiment.
Jean Hautière was made a Knight of the Legion of Honor. This was by decree on June 16 1945. The citation praised his courage and composure. He was killed at his post on April 11 1945. He led tanks in the attack of Plan Caval. The citation awarded him the War Cross with palm.
The À la mémoire des frères Hautière Stele stands as a reminder. It reminds us of Bernard and Jean Hautière. Both were brave men. Both were devoted to their country. Their sacrifice is forever etched in stone here. Take a moment to reflect on their courage. Remember their service as you stand before this memorial.