Amidst the grand tapestry of Paris, a plaque whispers tales of courage. The Groupe de bombardement F.A.F.L Lorraine Plaque commemorates a group of aviators who soared through the skies during World War II. Their story begins not in Paris, but under the scorching sun of Chad in November 1940. General de Larminat formed the “Groupe réserve de bombardement n°1,” later known as the Groupe de bombardement Lorraine. This fledgling unit, led by Captain Jean Astier de Villatte, played a crucial role in rallying Gabon to the Free French cause. They then supported Colonel Leclerc’s forces in the capture of Koufra in early 1941.
The Groupe de bombardement Lorraine, equipped with Bristol Blenheim bombers, was divided into two squadrons: “Metz” and “Nancy.” Under the command of Edouard Corniglion-Molinier, they flew missions in support of the British Eighth Army. Tragedy struck when Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Pijeaud, newly arrived from England, was mortally wounded on his first mission. Captain Pierre de Saint-Péreuse took his place, leading the group through 300 sorties in challenging conditions in January 1942. Many were wounded or lost. In October 1942, the Lorraine journeyed to England, where it was reformed as the 342e Squadron of the RAF. They traded their Blenheims for Douglas Boston III bombers and began a new chapter under Commandant Henri de Rancourt, later replaced by Michel Fourquet.
The Groupe de bombardement Lorraine distinguished itself in daring daylight and night bombing raids over France and Holland. They targeted power stations, railyards, airfields, and V1 launch sites. A notable victory was the near-total destruction of the Chevilly-Larue power station near Paris in October 1943. As the war raged, they specialized in night flights. In the pre-dawn hours of D-Day, June 6, 1944, they laid down a crucial smoke screen, codenamed Operation Screen Smoke, to shield the Allied fleet from German bombardment. Their success paved the way for the invasion. The Groupe de bombardement Lorraine then moved to Vitry-en-Artois under Commandant Jacques Soufflet.
They continued supporting Allied advances toward Germany, equipped with American Mitchell bombers and based in Holland. The plaque doesn’t list every operation or casualty. But it serves as a stark reminder of the dedication and sacrifices made. The Groupe de bombardement Lorraine flew its last wartime mission on May 2, 1945, and was awarded the Croix de la Libération on May 28. The Groupe de bombardement F.A.F.L Lorraine Plaque here in Paris stands as a tribute to these brave men. Their story, etched in metal, echoes through the ages, a testament to their courage and commitment. They served not only France but the cause of freedom itself.