Remember the name Jean Chalvidan as we walk along this street. Rue du Capitaine Chalvidan commemorates a French hero. This road honors a man of courage and conviction. Who was Captain Chalvidan?
Jean Chalvidan was born in Nîmes on August 26 1912. He excelled academically from a young age. At 17 he earned his baccalaureate. He gained admission to the prestigious Lycée Louis-le-Grand in Paris. By 19 he was qualified for both Polytechnique and Saint-Cyr. He chose Saint-Cyr.
Chalvidan graduated within the top ten of his class. He received the rank of second lieutenant in 1933. He was assigned to the 38th Infantry Regiment. In 1937 he chose to serve in the Gendarmerie. He was assigned to the Mobile Republican Guard in Caussade.
When war broke out in 1939 Chalvidan requested a transfer. He joined the 28th Light Infantry Battalion of Africa. He earned two citations for his bravery. In June 1940 Chalvidan was captured in Besançon. He attempted to escape three times but was unsuccessful. He was freed in November 1940 due to his Gendarmerie status.
Chalvidan held several assignments. These assignments led him from the Yonne to Gascony. He eventually took charge of the Saint-Cyriens platoon at Fort Montrouge. On July 5 1944 he was assigned to command the Gendarmerie section of Paris-Exelmans.
On August 22 1944 Chalvidan was involved in a mission. This mission transported arms and munitions to insurgents at the Police Prefecture. He was arrested and executed by the Germans in Vélizy-Villacoublay. Chalvidan’s life ended far too soon.
The Caserne Chalvidan in Paris-Exelmans was named in his honor on August 22 1945. This act immortalized his sacrifice. His bravery also earned him a place on the war memorial. It stands in the Square des Martyrs de la Résistance in Le Plessis-Robinson.
Rue du Capitaine Chalvidan serves as a reminder. It reminds us of the sacrifices made for freedom. Captain Chalvidan’s dedication to his country remains an inspiration. His name echoes through the streets. It reminds us of the cost of liberty. Let us reflect on his courage as we continue our tour.