Honoring the Legacy of D-Day Heroes
Discover the pivotal role of the Friends of the American Veterans in preserving the legacy of American soldiers, fostering Franco-American relations, and honoring the sacrifices made during the liberation of Normandy.
Foundation and Origins
The Amis des Vétérans Américains (AVA) is deeply rooted in the history of Sainte-Mère-Église, a town forever marked by its role in the liberation of Normandy during World War II. On the night of June 5th, 1944, Sainte-Mère-Église became the heart of the 82nd Airborne Division’s operations as American paratroopers descended from the sky. The town’s mayor, Alexandre Renaud, a veteran of the Great War, and his wife, Simone Renaud, played critical roles during and after these events. Fluent in English, they provided invaluable support to the American soldiers and their families, forging a lasting bond with the U.S. military and veterans.
The Renaud Family's Contributions
Simone Renaud: The Mother of Normandy
Temporary Cemeteries
Simone Renaud's Dedication
Simone Renaud, affectionately known as “The Mother of Normandy“, became a symbol of Franco-American friendship. She maintained correspondence with the families of fallen American soldiers buried in the temporary cemeteries established in Sainte-Mère-Église and Blosville, which contained 13,000 American graves. She personally wrote letters, provided updates on the graves, and ensured that the memory of these soldiers was preserved. At a time when transatlantic travel was difficult and costly, Simone acted as a bridge between grieving American families and their loved ones buried in Normandy. Her tireless devotion continued throughout her life, transforming her home and pharmacy into a haven for returning veterans and their families.
Evolution of the AVA
Simone Renaud’s vision to honor American veterans and their sacrifices led to the formation of the Amis des Vétérans Américains (AVA) in 1964.
1945
First Commemoration Event
1947
Partnership with Operation Democracy
1963
Visit of General Eisenhower
1964
Founding of the A.V.A
1994
50th Anniversary of D-Day
2004
Inauguration of La Fière Memorial
In 1964, recognizing the growing numbers of American veterans returning to Normandy and the expanding commemorative activities, Simone Renaud founded the Amis des Vétérans Américains. The association’s primary goal was to facilitate the welcome and support of American veterans visiting the sites where they had fought so bravely. From its inception, the AVA became central to organizing large-scale events, including the 20th and 25th D-Day anniversaries, which saw the return of prominent military figures such as General Matthew Ridgway, General James Gavin, and even General Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1963.
Our Collaborations
Operation Democracy
Operation Democracy was a grassroots initiative launched after WWII by Lt. Colonel Augustin S. Hart, Jr., and Mrs. Martha Breasted to provide aid to war-torn European communities.
Focused on the first town liberated by the 82nd Airborne, Sainte-Mère-Église, the citizens of Locust Valley sent supplies and support, forging a lasting bond with the town.
This partnership, exemplified by the Renaud family’s care for the graves of American soldiers, continues to symbolize the enduring Franco-American friendship.
The American Legion
The American Legion is the largest U.S. veterans organization with more than 1.6 million members who strengthen the nation through programs, services and advocacy for those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, youth and communities.
The American Legion has played a pivotal role in our mission to commemorate the bravery of American soldiers. Together, we have established various initiatives that support veterans and their families, ensuring their stories are preserved for future generations.
Fort Bragg
Our collaboration with Fort Bragg has led to the development of significant memorial sites and educational exchanges. This partnership has strengthened the historical ties between our nations, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our shared history.
Memorial Contributions
Iron Mike Statue and La Fière Memorial
The AVA has also played a key role in erecting memorials to honor American soldiers, including the Iron Mike statue and the La Fière Memorial site. The association worked with American veterans and their families to ensure these sites stand as lasting tributes to the bravery of those who fought in Normandy.
International Outreach
Simone Renaud's U.S. Visits
In the 1970s, Simone Renaud traveled to the United States, where she met with prominent figures such as Senator Ted Kennedy. These visits were crucial in strengthening Franco-American relations. Her son, Maurice Renaud, continued her legacy from Houston, Texas, ensuring that the bonds forged during and after World War II remain strong.
Enduring Partnerships
The AVA and the U.S. Army
One of the AVA’s key missions has been its longstanding relationship with the U.S. Army and its support of U.S. military ceremonies in Normandy. In 1984, a commemorative parachute drop was organized in Sainte-Mère-Église, initiated by American veterans like Bob Murphy, with the collaboration of Colonels Nightingale, MacNeill, and Yves Tariel. This event marked the beginning of a series of annual parachute drops that have become a central part of the D-Day commemorations. Colonel Johnson, the U.S. Military Attaché to the U.S. Embassy in Paris for over a decade, became a pillar of support for these events, alongside Colonel Nightingale, Colonel MacNeill, and Colonel Lettre, all of whom remain honorary members of the AVA.
Over the years, the AVA has collaborated with key U.S. military and veterans’ organizations, including the American Legion. The AVA has hosted the American Legion delegation, led by the National Commander, at D-Day ceremonies and memorials such as La Fière, where their participation has been an integral part of the official events. The AVA has maintained close ties with Fort Bragg, Fort Dix, and the U.S. Air Force, ensuring that the relationship between the U.S. military and Sainte-Mère-Église remains strong. The AVA’s president has even been invited to attend American Legion national conventions in Indianapolis and Houston, further strengthening these bonds.
Educational Exchanges
Fostering Future Generations
A.V.A : Next Generations
The AVA is dedicated to fostering educational exchanges between French and American youth, ensuring that the legacy of the D-Day soldiers is passed down through generations. By organizing student exchange programs, historical tours, and collaborative projects, the AVA provides young people with a deeper understanding of the shared history and sacrifices made during World War II.
Support Our Mission
Join us in honoring the brave soldiers who fought for freedom and democracy. Your support helps us continue our mission of remembrance and education. Participate in our upcoming events, contribute to our initiatives, and help us keep the legacy of the D-Day soldiers alive for future generations.