Sculpted figures stand solemnly. They carry an unseen burden. This is the Hommage aux soldats morts War memorial. It stands in the 15th arrondissement of Paris. This quiet place honors French soldiers. They died in operations extérieures OPEX.
The memorial’s creation began in 2011. General Bernard Thorette spearheaded the project. Initially planned near Les Invalides it moved. The 7th arrondissement and the architect des bâtiments de France objected. The current location in the Jardin Eugénie-Djendi proved more suitable. The Hommage aux soldats morts War memorial opened in 2019.
President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated it. He did so on Armistice Day. Families and loved ones of the fallen were present. This memorial is a significant national site of remembrance.
The sculpture itself is striking. The agency Pièces montées and artist Stéphane Vigny created it. Six life-sized anonymous soldiers surround an invisible coffin. Five are men one is a woman. One soldier’s Polynesian heritage is represented. Their headdresses reflect the diversity of the French armed forces. Berets kepis and even tricorns are visible.
More than just statues the Hommage aux soldats morts War memorial bears names. Over 549 names were inscribed initially. These names are organized by operation and year. They cover operations since 1963. The names are etched on 37 brass plaques. Space remains for future names. The memorial will continue to remember. This is a testament to the ongoing sacrifices.
The criteria for inclusion are specific. Soldiers must be officially recognized. They must have died on active duty in OPEX. The distinction between “mort en mission” and “OPEX” exists. The “mort pour la France” designation requires specific criteria. The Service historique de la Défense maintains a database. This database tracks soldiers killed in OPEX. It continuously updates. The Ministry of the Armed Forces also remembers. Their “In Memoriam” section includes biographies.
The Hommage aux soldats morts War memorial is more than stone and bronze. It is a living tribute. It stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance. It honors the ultimate sacrifice made by French soldiers. Each name etched on its walls represents a life lost in service. It is a place for reflection. A place to honor those who served France.