France’s major commemorations of the First World War Centenary start in earnest today (14th July 2014) at the Bastille Day parade in Paris.
President François Hollande has asked more than 80 countries to take part in the annual showcase event on the Champs Elysées.
It comes two weeks before the 100th anniversary of Austria-Hungary’s declaration of war on Serbia in 1914, which began the Great War.
All the former belligerents of 1914-18 are represented in Paris. As states or or colonies at the time, they either sent troops to fight in the conflict, or supplied labour for the war effort.
Delegations of young people will join members of the armed forces in delivering a message of universal peace and friendship.
They will pay tribute to the missing of the Great War at the Place de la Concorde, before taking part in a celebration of the diversity of humanity.
The day will close with a spectacular fireworks display at the Eiffel Tower.
More details can be found here on the Mission Centenaire 14-18 website.
Source: Mission Centenaire 14-18
Images courtesy of the Imperial War Museum
Posted by: Peter Alhadeff, Centenary News