American Liberator Welcomed with Kisses from Elderly French Couple

Photo Credit: Keystone / Getty Images Photo Credit: Keystone / Getty Images

During the Second World War, the US involvement in the liberation of France stands as a remarkable chapter in history, serving as a turning point in the Allied effort to defeat Germany. Nothing shows this more than the above image of an American liberator being smooched on the cheek by an elderly French couple.

Following the successful Normandy landings on June 6, 1944, American troops, under the command of Dwight Eisenhower, launched a grueling campaign to free France from German occupation. They first moved inland to take the city of Caen, which provided them with access to many major roads.

The Allies were able to liberate many small towns along the way, but it wasn’t until after their successful taking of the city in mid-July that they really began their liberation efforts.

The American forces displayed unparalleled bravery and determination as they fought their way inland, overcoming formidable German defenses. With every hard-fought victory, the US pushed back the Axis soldiers, liberating towns, villages and cities across France.

Naturally, the country’s citizens were overjoyed, as they’d lived under German rule since they invaded in May 1940. Many, like the American liberator above, were given a warm welcome.

The photo was taken on August 8, 1944, although it’s unclear exactly where, other than a town beginning with “Saint-Sauveur.” Regardless, the lieutenant’s appearance was enthusiastically celebrated. He’s seen with a flower stuck in his helmet, something that wasn’t uncommon, as the French would throw flowers, wave flags, cheer and bring out the last of the wine they’d kept safe from the Germans.

More from us: Clergyman Prays for Fallen GIs During the Battle of Ie-Shima

The gratitude was unparalleled, and when Paris was liberated on August 25, 1944, the country could finally begin to see freedom on the horizon.

Related Posts

Loose Women star Denise Welch’s three word warning after being scammed for thousands

Denise Welch has opened up about how she was scammed of thousands of pounds after making a huge error – and is warning others not to do…

Kym Marsh suffers another tragic family loss as she shares heartbreaking tribute

Actress Kym Marsh has revealed her family has suffered another devastating death as she paid an emotional tribute on her social media following the loss of her…

David Beckham makes big gesture on social media towards son Brooklyn amid rift

David Beckham showed his support for his eldest son Brooklyn Beckham on social media this week following rumours of a rift between some of the family in…

Clarkson’s Farm star Harriet Cowan claims she is ‘not making any money’ despite show

Harriet Cowan became a hit with Clarkson’s Farm viewers when she stepped in to help Jeremy Clarkson while Kaleb Cooper went away as she revealed the harsh…

Danniella Westbrook confesses her biggest regret as she looks back on her troubled past

Former EastEnders actress Danniella Westbrook says she doesn’t have any career regrets, but drugs will “always” be her biggest regret, as she’s opened up about her past…

Alex Jones fights tears as her rarely-seen husband appears on The One Show

Alex Jones was brought to tears during tonight’s episode of The One Show as her rarely-seen husband Charlie made a surprise appearance as she celebrated 15 years…