A recent report highlights the crucial yet long-overlooked role of Spanish soldiers in the liberation of Paris during World War II. These soldiers, part of the La Nueve company of the Second Armored Division, were among the first to enter Paris on August 24, 1944. The majority of La Nueve’s soldiers were Spanish Republicans who had previously fought against Franco’s dictatorship in Spain. Despite their significant contribution, their story was omitted from French history books for decades, and it was not until 2004 that Paris officially recognized their efforts. This acknowledgment came too late for many of the soldiers, although some, like Manuel Aroyo, received France’s highest honor before their passing.
- La Nueve, consisting mostly of Spanish Republicans, played a pivotal role in the liberation of Paris from Nazi occupation.
- 146 out of 160 soldiers in La Nueve were Spanish, many of whom were Communists or anarchists that fled Spain after fighting against Franco’s dictatorship.
- The contribution of these Spanish soldiers was largely ignored in French historical accounts until 2004, when Paris officially acknowledged their role.
- Their vehicles bore Spanish names like “Guernica” and “Don Quixote,” contrasting with the French-named vehicles often depicted in cinematic portrayals of the liberation.
- Some of the soldiers, including Manuel Aroyo, were eventually awarded France’s highest honor, the Legion of Honor, for their contributions.
- Despite hopes of continuing their fight against fascism in Spain, lack of support from France left many unable to do so, and some died in the country they helped liberate.
France 24 is an international television network and news website owned by the French state.
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