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 PARIS
- Two hundred and thirty-eight years after America declared it's
independence, the legacy for one of the country's earliest and
greatest allies continues to be honored and celebrated.
French and American service members, dignitaries and societies
participated in an annual commemorative ceremony at the tomb of
Major General Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette July 4, 2014.
Each year, on America's Independence Day, wreaths are
placed at the edge of Lafayette's tomb and the American
flag, which is flown above the grave, is lowered and
replaced with a new flag. The new flag is then raised and
flown until the ensuing year's ceremony.
French Air
Force Col. Bruno Culhe, international relations desk officer
with the French Joint Staff, said Lafayette continues to be
seen as a living figure in France; students continue to read
stories of Lafayette's bravery and learn about his
contributions to both France and America.
The
observance has taken place since the end of World War I and
pays homage to Lafayette for his roles in service during
conflicts such as the American War of Independence and the
French Revolution.
"Marquis de Lafayette goes back to
the very origin of the United States as a country," said Lt.
Col. Sean R. Madden from the United States Defense Attach�
Office at the U.S. Embassy in France. "It's from there that
dates the great friendship between France and the United
States."
During a time when America was struggling to
create it's own identity, separate from the Kingdom of Great
Britain, Lafayette stood and fought for the American cause.
Fighting under the command of Gen. George Washington,
Lafayette became a prominent officer in the Continental Army
and was even wounded before going back to France to solicit
King Louis XVI for increased support. Lafayette's
aristocratic influence with King Louis XVI had an
immeasurable influence on the outcome of the War.
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An American flag is lowered during an annual commemorative ceremony
at the tomb of Maj. Gen. Marquis de Lafayette July 4, 2014. Each
year, on America's Independence Day, French and American military
personnel, dignitaries and societies place wreaths at the edge of
Lafayette's tomb and lower the American flag, which is flown above
the grave. The flag is then replaced, raised and flown until the
ensuing year's ceremony. The memorial event, which began after World
War I, honors Lafayette for his roles in both American and French
conflicts such as the American War of Independence and the French
Revolution. (Photo courtesy of Jean Lentignac)
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"You could almost call him one of our forefathers," said
Madden of the significance of Lafayette's efforts. "He was
one of the key figures of the founding of the United States
of America."By U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Derrick Irions
Provided
through DVIDS
Copyright 2014
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