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FORT STEWART, Ga. — From August 12-22, 2024, 3rd Infantry Division command team members Col. Stephen E. Capehart, Deputy Commander of Support, and French Brig. Gen. Lionel Meny, Deputy Commanding General of Readiness, embarked on a journey through Southern France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Operation Dragoon.
This historic operation, often overshadowed by the more famous D-Day landings at Normandy, was a crucial Allied invasion during WWII that led to the liberation of much of southern France from Nazi occupation. The visit, which included stops in several towns liberated by the 3rd ID, underscored the enduring bond between the U.S. and France, forged in the fires of war and maintained through decades of mutual respect and cooperation.
Operation Dragoon, launched on Aug. 15, 1944, consisted of more than 100,000 American, British, Canadian and French troops, with the 3rd ID playing a crucial role. The operation was designed to complement the Normandy landings and force the German Army into a two-front struggle, eventually leading to the liberation of Paris and the downfall of Nazi Germany.
The 3rd ID, known as the "Rock of the Marne" for its heroic actions occurring in WWI, distinguished itself once again during Operation Dragoon. Under the command of Maj. Gen. John W. O'Daniel, the division landed near Saint-Tropez, France and rapidly advanced inland. Their swift and decisive action led to the liberation of key towns, including Aix-en-Provence, Draguignan and Marseille. The Division's progress was instrumental in collapsing the German defense in the region, paving the way for the Allied advance into the heart of Europe.
Capehart and Meny led the commemorative delegation that visited several towns liberated during Operation Dragoon. Their presence was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by servicemembers of both nations and the enduring legacy of their actions.
In Saint-Tropez, Aix-en-Provence, Draguignan, Brignoles and Le Luc, France, the delegation was greeted with ceremonies honoring the soldiers who fought for the towns’ liberation. Local leaders, veterans and residents gathered to pay their respects, highlighting the deep gratitude still felt in these communities. Through wreath-laying ceremonies, speeches and reenactments, the history of Operation Dragoon was brought to life.
Capehart spoke of the significance of the visit, noting that it was not only a time to remember the past but also to strengthen the bonds of friendship and alliance that have grown between the U.S. and France over the last 80 years.
"The courage and determination displayed by the Soldiers of the 3rd Infantry Division during Operation Dragoon is a testament to the enduring spirit of freedom and democracy," Capehart remarked. "It is our duty to honor their legacy by continuing to stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies, just as they did in 1944."
Meny echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of remembering the shared history between the two nations.
"The liberation of Southern France was a turning point in our shared history, a moment when the values we hold dear were defended with bravery and determination," Capehart said. "This visit is a reaffirmation of our commitment to those values and to the partnership that has grown between our nations."
The visit by the 3rd ID’s leadership had a significant impact on local leadership in southern France. Mayors, regional officials and community leaders expressed their appreciation for the continued partnership between their towns and the U.S. military. The visit was seen as a gesture of goodwill that reaffirmed the strong ties between the U.S. and France, particularly in the context of shared history and military cooperation.
The 80th anniversary of Operation Dragoon serves as a powerful reminder of the shared history and values that unite the U.S. and France. As they paid homage to the past, they also looked to the future, reaffirming the commitment to continue working together as allies in the pursuit of peace and security.
The accomplishments of the 3rd ID during Operation Dragoon are a testament to the bravery, skill and determination of the soldiers who fought to liberate Southern France. Their actions not only helped secure victory in WWII but also laid the foundation for the strong, enduring partnership for generations to come.
| Date Taken: | 08.22.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 09.04.2024 09:25 |
| Story ID: | 479583 |
| Location: | FR |
| Web Views: | 30 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Commemorating a legacy: 3rd Infantry Division honors Operation Dragoon, by PFC Santiago Lepper, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
