Around the mayor, Gilles Bayart, were gathered regional councilor Gérard Hébert, departmental vice-president and councilor Guy Crosnier, sub-prefect Benoît Vidon, numerous municipal officials and citizens, as well as members of the "Comité d’Entente des Associations Patriotiques et Mémorielles d’Étampes et ses environs". The director of the Centre Hospitalier Sud-Essonne, Julien Jouny, was also present.
An excerpt from the General's will, written on January 16, 1952, was read, recalling his wish for extremely simple funeral rites.
The commemoration concluded with the laying of wreaths by authorities and patriotic associations, honoring the memory of General de Gaulle and his historical legacy.
This ceremony provided an opportunity to recall the exceptional journey of the man who embodied Free France, led the Resistance, and founded the Fifth Republic. Films dedicated to General de Gaulle, released this summer, have recently helped to highlight his actions.
