“The flame of French resistance must not be extinguished and will not be extinguished.” These powerful words still resonate around this very spot at the L’Appel du 18 juin 1940 Stele. This unassuming monument marks a pivotal moment in French history. It commemorates the day Charles de Gaulle, a relatively unknown French general, made a historic broadcast from London. Picture it: June 18, 1940. France, facing imminent defeat by Nazi Germany, was about to surrender. Paris itself had already fallen to the Nazis. Many believed all was lost. It was then that de Gaulle, exiled in London, took to the airwaves of the BBC. His message was simple yet defiant. From the L’Appel du 18 juin 1940 Stele, we are reminded of his stirring words: France was not alone in this fight! His speech, known as the “Appeal of June 18th,” ignited the spirit of resistance within occupied France. It galvanized the French people. It gave them hope when all seemed lost. Though few heard the broadcast live, it marked the birth of the French Resistance. The L’Appel du 18 juin 1940 Stele stands as a testament to that pivotal moment. It is a solemn reminder of the courage and determination of those who fought for France’s liberation.
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.