Pierre Montel Stele

Amidst the bustling city of Lyon, a silent sentinel stands, the Pierre Montel Stele. This unassuming monument holds a story of remarkable courage, resilience, and profound loss. Pierre Montel, born in Lyon in 1896, was a man who wore many hats. He was a politician, a decorated war veteran, a resistance fighter, and a devoted father. The Pierre Montel Stele commemorates his life, a life intertwined with the tumultuous history of 20th-century France. Montel served as a deputy of the Rhône from 1946 to 1958. He also held the position of Secretary of State for the Armed Forces and later for the Air Force. He even ran for president in 1953. But his political career is just one facet of his compelling story. Montel’s bravery extended beyond the political arena. He was a decorated veteran of both World Wars. During World War II, he joined the French Resistance, risking his life to fight against Nazi occupation. He was forced to flee across the Pyrenees in 1943 to join the Free French Forces in North Africa. There, he served under General de Lattre de Tassigny. His courage earned him the prestigious Legion of Honour. However, Montel’s story is also one of profound tragedy. He and his wife, Paule, had five children. Three of his sons, Yves, André, and Georges, were tragically killed during the war. André died in the Buchenwald concentration camp, while Georges and Yves perished in Dora. This stele serves not only as a memorial to Pierre Montel’s service and sacrifice but also as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of war on families. As you stand before the Pierre Montel Stele, take a moment to reflect on the life of this remarkable individual. He was a man of unwavering courage and dedication, who served his country and fought for freedom. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The Pierre Montel Stele serves as a silent witness to a life lived fully, marked by both triumph and tragedy. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made during wartime and the importance of remembering those who fought for freedom.