Macron Pays Tribute to WWII Alsace and Moselle Men Drafted into German Army
On November 11, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron honored the memories of individuals from Alsace and Moselle who were conscripted into the German military during World War II. This tribute coincided with the anniversary of the 1918 Armistice and took place at the Hôtel des Invalides.
Tribute to the Malgré-Nous
During the annual ceremony, Macron was accompanied by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu as they unveiled a commemorative plaque. The tribute focused on the men known as malgré-nous, meaning “despite ourselves,” who faced conscription after Germany annexed these regions in 1940. Compulsory military service was enforced in 1942, compelling many to serve against their will.
Statistics and Impact
- Between 20,000 and 40,000 men died while serving.
- Approximately 90,000 men returned to France post-war.
- These returnees were often labeled as traitors upon their return.
At the ceremony, Macron acknowledged the presence of six surviving malgré-nous veterans. He previously referred to their plight as a “tragedy” during the commemorations for the 80th anniversary of Strasbourg’s liberation in November 2024.
Remembrance Day Observances
Following the tribute, Macron participated in the annual Remembrance Day ceremony in Paris. He laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe, marking the sacrifices made during wartime.
Attendance and Tradition
The ceremony also included prominent figures such as Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, National Assembly President Yaël Braun-Pivet, and Senate President Gérard Larcher, who laid wreaths in turn. Traditionally, former French presidents and their families participate in this memorial event.
Notably, Nicolas Sarkozy, a former president recently released from prison, opted not to attend. Brigitte Macron, the president’s wife, was also absent; she had attended the event only once since becoming first lady, during the centenary of the Armistice in 2018.
