Toulouse: dozens of people present for the ceremony of the 106th anniversary of the Armistice of 1918

“In the 52nd month of a war without precedent in history, the French Army, with the help of its allies, completed the defeat of the enemy. Our troops, animated by the purest spirit of sacrifice, giving during 4 years of uninterrupted combat, the example of sublime endurance and daily heroism, fulfilled the task entrusted to them by the homeland […]”.

It was upon reading, Monday, November 11, the “Communiqué from the general headquarters of the French army dated November 11, 1918” that the public present at the ceremony of the 106th anniversary of the Armistice was able to once again take measure of the scale of the deadly combat during the First World War which left around 18.6 million dead, including 9.7 million among the military.

“The tragedy of war returns to Europe”

Dozens of people and military and political figures attended this commemoration, on the Allées Frédéric-Mistral in Toulouse, which echoes a cruel reality which is once again affecting Europe. “At a time when the tragedy of war has made a comeback in Europe, at a time when certain powers are calling into question all the foundations of international order and law, those of 14 and those of all wars whisper to us to continue to defend peace,” we heard on the microphone. Decorations and laying of wreaths marked the commemoration of the Armistice.