Vive La France

July 14th is France’s National Day, commemorating the storming of the Bastille in 1789 during the French Revolution. Similarly, May 8th is Victory in Europe Day, honoring the Allied victory in World War II, while November 11th marks the Armistice that ended World War I. These are solemn days to remember the countless brave souls who sacrificed their lives defending a great nation. Lille holds a particularly poignant place in this history, especially as a city profoundly shaped by World War I. Intense battles raged in its surrounding region, most notably around Lens. The impressive War Memorial in Place Rihour — right next to the tourist office and Palais Rihour — is dedicated to the fallen soldiers and civilians of that devastating conflict. Yet, due to its strategic geographic location near borders and key routes, Lille was also deeply affected by the French Revolution (including the 1792 siege), the Napoleonic Wars, and World War II — leaving behind numerous monuments in the city center that bear witness to these pivotal chapters. On these national days, I often guided visitors to these meaningful sites. Whether you are French, an immigrant in France like myself, or simply a francophile, standing before them instills a profound sense of pride. As John F. Kennedy once said, every man has two countries: his own and France.