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

Prince Harry’s secret visa files released – but key question remains over drug use

The conservative Heritage Foundation had campaigned to have Prince Harry’s Visa application released after he admitted to taking cocaine, marijuana and psychedelic mushrooms A US judge has…

Zara McDermott shakes off Sam Thompson dig as she ‘moves fast’ with Louis Tomlinson

Zara McDermott was recently spotted on a date with Louis Tomlinson as pals have claimed the pair are ‘moving fast’ but are ‘happy’ for them – while…

Paddy McGuinness puts lavish £6.5m home on the market as Christine ‘desperate’ to move on

Christine McGuinness is said to be feeling ‘desperate’ to start a fresh as her estranged husband Paddy McGuinness has put their former marital home up for sale…

Victoria Beckham confirms part in Jennifer Aniston’s ex Justin Theroux’s wedding

Victoria Beckham confirmed she had a huge role in Jennifer Aniston’s ex-husband Justin Theroux’s wedding to Nicole Brydon Bloom Victoria Beckham confirms part in Jennifer Aniston’s ex…

Celebrity Big Brother star Bradley Riches joins Emmerdale in mysterious new role

Celebrity Big Brother star and Heartstopper actor Bradley Riches has joined the cast of Emmerdale in a mysterious new role, with the scenes set to debut in…

Coleen Nolan interrupts Loose Women co-star to take swipe at ex-husband

Loose Women took an awkward turn on Tuesday when Coleen Nolan made a savage Alfie Moon comment Loose Women: Coleen asks Charlene about her first child’s name…