Commemorations for the 80th anniversary of the Allied landings in southern France have been significantly impacted due to the potential for thunderstorms. Key events, including a reception hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron aboard the amphibious helicopter carrier Dixmude, have been canceled.
Additionally, a planned re-enactment of the landings in Toulon has also been scrapped. The landings in Provence were pivotal in the liberation of France during World War II, allowing Allied forces to reclaim large portions of southern France. Often referred to as the “forgotten D-Day,” these operations took place shortly after the famous Normandy landings.
The Elysee Palace announced the cancellation of the reception moments before the commemorations were set to commence. The regional authority in Var confirmed that the re-enactments on Lido beach at Mourillon were called off due to adverse weather conditions and a considerable risk of storms. Forecasts indicate severe storms and heavy rain for the area, with wind speeds reaching 140 km/h (87 mph).
The Provence landings began on August 15, 1944, with around 100,000 American, British, and Canadian troops storming the beaches of the French Riviera, followed by an additional 250,000 soldiers from former French colonies in Africa. Despite their significant contributions, the role of these soldiers has been largely overlooked in commemorations for many years.
During a ceremony at the Boulouris National Cemetery in Saint-Raphael, President Macron acknowledged the sacrifices of these soldiers, stating they fought for “self-determination, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.” He specifically recognized the contributions of African soldiers, who were often drafted against their will from regions such as Cameroon, Central African Republic, Gabon, Togo, Morocco, and Niger.
Macron’s remarks included a strong tribute to the resolve and bravery of these troops, supplemented by comments from African leaders like Paul Biya of Cameroon, who underscored the importance of international contributions to the Allied victory. Biya emphasized the outstanding efforts and sacrifices made by soldiers from West Africa, Equatorial Africa, Madagascar, and the Indian Ocean, highlighting their exemplary courage and loyalty.
The soldiers involved in the Provence landings—part of Operation Dragoon—were instrumental in the capture of vital Mediterranean ports like Marseille and Toulon, intensifying the pressure on Nazi forces by establishing a new front in the region.
