This memorial to the dead of Orne changes place: we tell you why

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This year, the commemoration of November 11 took on a particular tone, because it also marked the inauguration of the Sainte-Opportune war memorial (Orne).

“We postponed the ceremony for this reason, as we wanted to organize a nice event in the presence of elected officials,” underlines Jean Onfroy, president of the National Union of Combatants of Briouze.

A “more convenient” location

Indeed, following the work in the village, the municipality decided to move the war memorial from the church square to a new square, which also accommodates a parking and a bus stop.

It's much more practical. Previously, for ceremonies, everyone parked in front of the church, which left no space.

The ceremony then began in the village, accompanied by the Briouzaine harmony Harmusica.

The population, as well as elected officials and representatives of state bodysuch as the gendarmerie, gathered to pay their respects on the new square of the war memorial.

Jean Onfroy led the ceremony, beginning with a standing attention.

A young woman from the village then read the official message from Sébastien LecornuMinister of the Armed Forces, and Jean-Louis Thieriot, Minister Delegate to the Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans. A soldier from France read the speech of the National Union of Combatants.

The mayor and deputy Jérôme Nury together submitted sheaves in homage. The roll call for the dead then took place, with the naming of each soldier who fell for France during the World Wars.

A minute of silence was observed in their memory. The harmony played the bell to the dead to close this part of the ceremony, followed by The Marseillaise. To conclude on a note of hope, The Ode to Joy was interpreted.

The inauguration then the ceremony

The large population then headed together, accompanied by harmony, towards the party room where the commune offered a friendly drink.

The mayor took the floor to thank the deputy Jérôme Nury and apologize for the absence of the president of Flers Agglo, Yves Goasdoué, as well as the departmental councilor, Marie-Françoise Frouel, who were busy with other commitments.

He stressed the importance of support of elected officials for work carried out in the community.

The Fortis company was also thanked for its work in restoration of the war memorial. Finally, Jean Onfroy was saluted for his presence, as were the many residents who came to attend this inauguration.

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