Hollande Evokes Memories of Franco American Friendship

At 10:40 a.m in the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach in Normandy, French President Francois Hollande appeared in front of a crowd of thousands to deliver a speech commemorating the 70th anniversary of D-Day. Hollande covered much ground in his approximately fifteen minute speech. He focused on thanking the men who fought and lost their lives to assure freedom, as well as the ongoing relationship between France and the United States.

The French head of state opened the ceremony with a vivid description of the battle scene, describing the beaches and sea waters as red with blood. Hollande thanked the American war veterans for risking their lives in sacrifice for French freedom.

The French official then continued on to discuss the significance of the “Atlantic Wall” barrier against democracy created by the Nazis during their occupation of France. He emphasized that without the strength of the American military, the French would not have been liberated.

Hollande then began to thank the American troops that fought so valiantly on Omaha Beach and other Normandy landmarks a mere 70 years ago. Hollande noted that the peace and cooperation seen now on Normandy beaches is a sign of a friendship between countries. This international friendship has lasted two centuries, and Hollande predicted the friendship and working partnership will last for a very long time.

Hollande continued to expand upon the importance of the Franco-American friendship and alliance.  He highlighted its common goals of defending human rights and defeating tyranny and oppression. Hollande stressed that the friendship allows the countries to work together and work towards a more just, democratic and peaceful world.

Hollande concluded his inspiring commemoration speech by announcing “Vive l’Amerique, Vive La France, Vive la memoir de ce qui sont tombes ici!” (Long live America, long live France, and long live the memory of those who fell here!”)