Died for France
L'Arc de Triomphe / photo par Catarina Belova/Shutterstock.com
The Unknown Soldier lies under the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. We know only two things about him: He is French and he died for France. He was chosen in Verdun by another soldier, Auguste Thin, who was presented with 8 coffins from the 8 main battlefields of the Great War. On November 10, 1920, Auguste Thin, 21 years old, the youngest volunteer enlisted man in his regiment, stood at attention in front of the 6th coffin and laid a bouquet of flowers. The body was received in Paris at the Pantheon where it was originally to remain. At the request of the veterans, it was finally decided that it would be the Arc de Triomphe. He was buried there on January 28, 1921.
Since 1923, the Flame of the Unknown Soldier watches over him.
L'Arc de Triomphe / photo par Bill Perry/Shutterstock.com
Since 1923, on the sacred slab, the flame of the Unknown Soldier watches day and night over the tomb of the hero. It is revived every day. By the President of the Republic at the great moments of memory of the Nation, or by people delegated by veterans' associations or whose civic-mindedness is recognized.
La Dalle Sacrée et la flamme du Soldat Inconnu / photo parmeanmachine77/Shutterstock.com
The sword makes the flame gush out more strongly. We hear the sounding of the bells of the dead, then the flags are lowered. A minute of silence is then observed and the Marseillaise closes the ceremony. Since 1923 nothing has ever stopped this sacred ceremony. It even took place during the occupation. Auguste THIN died in 1982 in Beauvais. He was honored with the Cross of the Legion of Honor.
La Marseillaise par Rude sur l'Arc de Triomphe / photo par dimm3d/Shutterstock.com
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FAQ The Unknown Soldier
Who was Auguste Thin and what role did he play in choosing the Unknown Soldier?
Auguste Thin, a 21-year-old volunteer soldier, selected the Unknown Soldier in 1920 in Verdun from among eight coffins.
How was the selection of the Unknown Soldier organized?
Eight coffins from the main battlefields were presented; Thin stood at attention in front of the sixth and laid a bouquet of flowers.
When was the Unknown Soldier buried under the Arc de Triomphe?
After being welcomed at Les Invalides, he was finally buried under the Arc de Triomphe on January 28, 1921.
What is the Flame of the Unknown Soldier?
Since 1923, a flame has been rekindled every evening at his tomb. It symbolizes national memory and has never been extinguished.
When did Auguste Thin die?
Auguste Thin died in 1982 in Beauvais. He was awarded the Cross of the Legion of Honor for his gesture.
