On June 18, France observes the National Day of Remembrance of the Resistance, established by law in 2013 to honor the French Resistance during World War II. The date marks General Charles de Gaulle's historic Appeal of June 18, 1940, broadcast from London, which called on French citizens to resist the Nazi occupation.
Ceremonies are held nationwide, including at the Mont-Valérien memorial near Paris, where many resistance members were executed. The day pays tribute to the men and women who fought for France's liberation through clandestine networks, sabotage, and intelligence gathering.
According to official records, the Resistance involved an estimated 200,000 to 400,000 active members by 1944. Their efforts significantly aided the Allied forces during the Normandy landings and the liberation of France in 1944-1945.
