“Why March 19th?” someone asks. The Monument aux Morts du 19 Mars 1962 stands as a somber reminder. It marks the end of the Algerian War. The war concluded with a ceasefire on March 19 1962.
This monument is not just about a date. It’s about remembering all victims. These victims include civilians and soldiers. They died during the Algerian War. The monument also honors those who fought in Tunisia and Morocco.
France remembers the 23000 soldiers who died. These soldiers include French and Harkis. The monument also commemorates civilian victims.
The National Memorial of the Algerian War stands on Quai Jacques Chirac in Paris. It faces the Eiffel Tower. Jacques Chirac inaugurated it. This was in the presence of Michèle Alliot-Marie and Hamlaoui Mekachera.
The memorial has three electronic displays. They are in the colors of the French flag. The first column lists names of the dead. The second shows messages about the war. The third allows visitors to search for specific soldiers.
A ground inscription honors those who died. It remembers those killed after the ceasefire. Many remain unidentified.
A plaque commemorates missing persons. It also honors civilians who suffered during the war. This includes victims of massacres after March 19 1962. These acts violated the Évian Accords. The plaque also honors civilian victims of fighting in Morocco and Tunisia.
In 2003 France chose December 5th as a day of national remembrance. This day honors those who died during the Algerian War. It also remembers those who fought in Morocco and Tunisia. This date was chosen when the monument was inaugurated.
The Monument aux Morts du 19 Mars 1962 serves as a place for reflection. It stands for remembrance. It calls for unity among all. It is a tribute to all who suffered. The monument is a place to remember history. It is a plea for peace.