Events surrounding the 2nd Armored Division
Type :
Meet
Date:
In April and July 2023
Where:
Normandy Victory Museum
A program dedicated to the 2nd Armored Division
As part of its programming and in connection with the exhibition dedicated to Jean Gabin, who served in the 2nd Armored Division, the Normandy Victory Museum offers several events celebrating the history and heritage of this iconic unit.
Between meetings, exhibitions, conferences and activities, these highlights allow us to better understand the role of the 2nd Armored Division in the Second World War and to pass on this memory to the public.
In April, a day dedicated to the 2nd Armored Division, including an exhibition and a meeting.
On April 20, the museum hosts a day dedicated to the 2nd Armored Division on the occasion of the release of volume 10 of the comic book Normandy June 44.
Le screenwriter Jean-Blaise Djian is present for a book signing, freely accessible in the reception hall.
Throughout the day, the DFL Normandie association also offers a mini-exhibition in the Jean Gabin space, with presentation of uniforms and activities around the 2nd Armored Division.
This dual programming allows visitors to discover both a historical approach and a contemporary editorial interpretation of the journey of the 2nd Armored Division.
In July, a weekend of commemoration centered around the 2nd Armored Division
On July 29 and 30, 2023, the Normandy Victory Museum organizes a commemoration weekend dedicated to the 2nd Armored Division.
The program includes: a conference, a parade of military vehicles, and meetings and exchanges with the public.
On Saturday, a conference of the General Michel, president of the association of veterans of the 2nd Armored Division, revisits the epic story of General Leclerc through the experiences of General Dio. At the end of the day, a column of military vehicles in the colors of the 2nd Armored Division arrives at the museum, offering a spectacular parade.
On Sunday, a public discussion about Jean Gabin in the 2nd Armored Division brought together Mathias Moncorgé and Philippe Gélinet. A book signing session followed, extending this opportunity for discussion with the public.
The 2nd Armored Division: Between Historical Figures and Living Memory
Among the leading figures of the 2nd Armored Division, the General Dio occupies a special place. Close to General Leclerc From 1940 onwards, in 1945, at only 37 years old, he became the youngest general in the French army of the 20th century.
Jean GabinJean Moncorgé, whose real name was Jean Moncorgé, also has a remarkable story. An iconic actor, he chose to join the Free French Forces and the 2nd Armored Division in 1944. As a tank commander, he participated in the fighting as far as Germany, before remaining discreet about his involvement after the war.
These events offered by the museum help to keep this memory alive, by combining historical narratives, testimonies and public outreach.