On 8 May 2026, the town of Coulounieix-Chamiers in Dordogne, France, held its annual ceremony to commemorate the end of World War II in Europe. This year's event emphasized passing the memory of the war to the younger generation, with local youth participating in the proceedings.
According to reports from France Bleu Périgord, the ceremony included students from local schools who read texts and laid wreaths at the war memorial. The mayor of Coulounieix-Chamiers, Jean-Pierre Roussarie, highlighted the importance of keeping the memory alive among youth, stating that 'the flame of remembrance must be passed on.'
The event also featured veterans and representatives of patriotic associations, who shared their experiences with the students. The goal was to ensure that the lessons of World War II are not forgotten as the number of living witnesses decreases.
Similar ceremonies took place across France on 8 May, marking the 81st anniversary of the Allied victory in Europe in 1945.
