National Day of Remembrance of Guy Moke and his 26 comrades
October 22, Wednesday
History of the holiday
The commemorative date is dedicated to Guy Môquet — a young French anti-fascist and member of the Resistance — and his 26 comrades who were executed by the Nazis on October 22, 1941, in the commune of Châteaubriant during World War II. Guy Môquet, who was only 17 at the time of his death, became a symbol of courage and patriotism among French youth. Before his death, he wrote a touching letter to his family, which became one of the most famous documents of the French Resistance.
Significance of the holiday
This date serves as a reminder of the sacrifice of young fighters for France's freedom and independence. The holiday emphasizes the importance of civic responsibility, remembrance of the past, and resistance to all forms of tyranny and oppression.
Celebration traditions
* Schools and educational institutions hold remembrance lessons where Guy Môquet’s last letter is read.
* Flowers are laid at memorials and Resistance monuments.
* Ceremonies of remembrance are held in cities across France, attended by veterans, officials, and students.
* Exhibitions dedicated to the events of October 1941 are organized in Resistance museums.
Interesting facts
* Guy Môquet was arrested at the age of 16 for distributing anti-Nazi leaflets.
* His name is borne by many streets, schools, and metro stations in France.
* In 2007, then-President Nicolas Sarkozy proposed that Guy Môquet’s letter be read annually in schools to strengthen historical memory among young people.
Symbolism
The memory of Guy Môquet and his comrades symbolizes resilience of spirit, dedication to the ideals of freedom, and the belief that even youth can be a time for great heroism.
National Day of Remembrance of Guy Moke and his 26 comrades in other years
- 2021 October 22, Friday
- 2022 October 22, Saturday
- 2023 October 22, Sunday
- 2024 October 22, Tuesday
- 2026 October 22, Thursday