Join us to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day (Débarquement de Normandie) and the 75th anniversary of the Merci Train.
On Sunday, June 9, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Alliance Française de Tulsa members will have exclusive access to tour the Military History Museum in Broken Arrow. Wine and light bites will be provided.
At 2:15, Dr. David Bath (Rogers State University history professor) will give a short lecture about the history of D-Day and its significance. We will also take a moment to honor veterans who bravely took part in the invasion.
This casual, come-and-go event is a great opportunity to recognize the shared French-American history and socialize with fellow AF de Tulsa members.
Throughout the event, there will be a running loop of short film clips about D-Day, The “Merci” Train, and more. Stop by the viewing room to increase your knowledge of the history, culture, and impact of D-Day for both France and America. You can also explore the Military History Museum at-will.
We invite you to come share in the history and commemorate the anniversary of D-Day and the Merci Train.
D-Day History
On June 6, 1944, the Allies launched the long-anticipated invasion of Normandy, France. Soldiers from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and other Allied nations faced Hitler’s formidable Atlantic Wall as they landed on the beaches of Normandy. The Normandy Landings marked the start of the campaign to free north-west Europe from the Nazis in WWII.
Merci Train
The Merci Train was a train of 49 French railroad box cars filled with tens of thousands of sentimental gifts of gratitude from French citizens to Americans, who had sent relief goods to France following the end of WWII. The Merci Train arrived in New York harbor on February 2nd, 1949, and each of the 48 American states at that time received one of the box cars filled with gifts. (Pictured above: Merci Train in Norman, Oklahoma)
Learn more about the Merci Train here.
Event Details
When: Sunday, June 9, 2024 | 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. (Come & Go)
Where: Military History Museum (112 N Main St, Broken Arrow, OK 74012)
Click here to RSVP on MeetUp.
Free and open to the public. Recommended donation of $5 to the Military History Museum.
To become a member of Alliance Française de Tulsa, visit our Membership page.
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