Tribute to Nick Cressy: A Touching Commemoration and a Duty to Remember
There are times when history and emotion intertwine to remind us of the importance of collective memory. The tribute paid to Fontain on January 19th is a poignant example. That day, Nick Cressy, an American Colonel, accompanied by his family, honored the memory of six young men who fell nearly 80 years ago in a tragic crash.
A Historic Meeting in Fontaine
What an honour it was for the commune of Fontain to welcome Nick Cressy, descendant of one of the six victims of the crash of an American military plane on 19 January 1945. With his wife, he stayed for 10 days in the Maison du Fort de Fontain, a fort also steeped in history. They were then joined by their daughter, her husband and their four daughters, who happily took over the other two gîtes.
During their visit, this American family was deeply affected by the warmth of the welcome from the locals and the devotion of the American Memorial Association of Fontain, chaired by Daniel Ducret. Their stay was punctuated by enriching exchanges and shared moments of emotion.
A Ceremony filled with Emotions
The commemoration ceremony, held at the American Memorial in Fontain, will remain etched in memories. All local civil and military authorities were present to pay tribute to these young American officers and non-commissioned officers. The monument, erected on the very site of the crash, served as a silent witness to this outpouring of recognition.
Nick Cressy, with words filled with emotion, paid tribute to these courageous men who, far from their native land, engaged in the fight to liberate France and Europe. His speech, punctuated with gratitude and respect, touched all the participants, reaffirming the importance of never forgetting the sacrifices made for freedom.
The Lasting Impact of Memory
Beyond the ceremony, this gathering was a living proof of transatlantic friendship and the duty of remembrance. The Cressy family was particularly moved by the mobilization of the members of the Doubs Libération US 44 association, as well as by the mobilization of many local residents. The younger generations present were also able to be made aware of history thanks to this significant event.
A Call to Collective Memory
This type of commemoration reminds us how essential it is to pass on history and honor those who sacrificed their lives for universal ideals. By preserving this memory, Fontain becomes an example of resilience and recognition.
Thus, the tribute paid to Nick Cressy and these heroes of 1945 reaffirms our duty to never forget and to continue to tell their story to future generations. It is through these gestures that collective memory remains alive, and that the bond between peoples is strengthened.