The story of Missak Manouchian, an Armenian resistance fighter who became leader of the Red Poster group, continues to mark memories, 80 years after his execution by the Nazis at Fort Mont-Valérien. This symbol of the fight against Nazi oppression and for freedom is now honored by entering the Pantheon, alongside his wife Mélinée.
Born in the chaos of the Armenian genocide, Manouchian experienced the cruelties of war and exile from his childhood. Arriving in France in the 1920s, he had to face the death of his brother then the Great Depression, before turning to communist ideals and the fight against fascism.
Volunteering in the French army at the start of the Second World War, Manouchian then joined the FTP-MOI to fight the Nazi occupiers. His journey, marked by loss and resilience, embodies total commitment to freedom and justice.
His entry into the Pantheon represents a turning point in memory, a recognition for all the foreign resistance fighters who gave their lives for France. Manouchian thus becomes the first foreign resistance fighter and communist to join this place of homage to the heroes of the nation.
Throughout its history, it is also the universal fight for the values of freedom, equality and fraternity that is celebrated. His sacrifice is a reminder that the fight against oppression and injustice knows no borders, and that the memory of heroes must be honored to inspire future generations.
By honoring Manouchian, the Pantheon pays homage to all those who fell to defend human dignity and the ideals of the Republic. His memory remains alive, as a reminder of resistance in the face of darkness and the strength of commitment to a better world.