This Tuesday, July 8, the National Police Celebration Day was held at the Auvare barracks. It was a moment to honor the memory of police officers who died on duty, to pay tribute to those injured while serving, and to award medals.
It’s 9:30 AM, and everyone stands in line. The Auvare barracks is almost silent: everyone awaits the arrival of Prefect Laurent Hottiaux to begin the ceremony. Despite the sun shining overhead, the members of the national police remain impassive. At the expected arrival of the Prefect, the Marseillaise resounds. The ceremony begins in an Olympian calm.
A Tribute
This National Police Celebration Day is, above all, a moment to honor the memory of police officers who died on duty and pay tribute to those injured in service.
The ceremony opened with a minute of silence for Olivier Mariande, who lost his life this past April 7 during a rescue mission in the Hautes-Pyrénées.
Decorations were then awarded to members of the national police. Some received the National Medal of Recognition for Victims of Terrorism from the hands of Prefect Laurent Hottiaux. Others were awarded the bronze Medal for Acts of Courage and Dedication and the National Police Honor Medal. These were strong and memorable moments.
The Letter from the Minister of the Interior
Laurent Hottiaux then took the floor to read a letter written by the Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau. The message praised the members of the national police, encouraging them and congratulating them for their total commitment to France and the Republic.
“This is a day for the brave, France’s tribute to French courage. Despite the violence that targets you, you remain strong and upright. You are the exemplary Republic.” the minister wrote, reiterating his gratitude: “There is no greater honor than to lead those who consent to the greatest sacrifices. Long live the National Police, long live the Republic, and long live France.“
The ceremony concluded with a laying of wreaths, before everyone present had the chance to converse and laugh. It was a moment of conviviality to fully honor the national police.
