What Became of the French Soldiers Evacuated from Dunkirk?

The Dunkirk evacuation, also known as Operation Dynamo, took place between May 26 and June 4, 1940. Approximately 338,000 Allied soldiers, including a significant number of French troops, were rescued from the beaches of Dunkirk and brought back to Britain. This article delves into the post-Dunkirk fate of these brave soldiers.

Return to France

After the evacuation, many of the French soldiers who had been evacuated returned to France. However, by June 1940, France had already fallen to Nazi Germany, leading to the establishment of the Vichy regime. This regime collaborated with the Germans, exerting significant control over the country.

Joining the Resistance

Despite the demoralizing defeat, some of these soldiers chose to join the French Resistance. The French Resistance was a movement that resisted German occupation and Vichy collaboration. However, the extent of their involvement was limited. The political landscape had changed rapidly, and many soldiers were disheartened by the swift defeat and subsequent political shift.

Joining the Free French Forces

Others responded positively to the call of duty by joining the Free French Forces, led by Charles de Gaulle. These troops continued to fight against the Axis powers from abroad, contributing to the Allied cause. They helped organize military efforts and supported other Allied units from bases in Britain and other countries.

Integration into Other Military Units

Some French soldiers were integrated into existing military units or reformed into new ones. This decision depended on the circumstances and the needs of the French military and its allies.

Aftermath and D-Day

Around 120,000 of the French soldiers were evacuated, with about 35,000 remaining to be captured. About 3,000 stayed in the UK to join De Gaulle's 'Free French forces,' but the majority of them were shipped to Cherbourg, Le Havre, and other locations. These soldiers were inevitably captured during the surrender of France within a few weeks.

However, the story did not end there. On D-Day, many of these soldiers who were captured and integrated into other military units came back to fight again. They remembered the famous words: "He who fights and runs away lives to fight another day." These soldiers proved that their resolve was greater than the losses they had endured.

Soon after D-Day, these troops were re-equipped and reformed under Charles de Gaulle as part of the Free French Forces. Along with some American units, they played a crucial role in the liberation of Paris. The determination and resilience of these French soldiers are a testament to their unwavering commitment to their country and the Allied cause.

In summary, the French soldiers evacuated from Dunkirk faced various fates, but their contributions to the Allied effort were significant. While some returned to France to face a harsh regime, others joined the Resistance or the Free French Forces, and many were integrated into other military units. Their story is a reminder of the enduring spirit of those who fight for their homeland.