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French reservists enjoying lunch in London, September 1939

French reservists enjoying lunch in London, September 1939


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French reservists enjoying lunch in London, September 1939

French reservists enjoying their lunch and wine under the cover of the trees of Bedford Square as they wait to register for service. The Sphere comments that " each man had previously been warned to bring his midday rations", suggesting there was a great response to this first call for reservist troops, just after the outbreak of war.
September 1939

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Media ID 23266984

© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans

Allied Allies Bedford Beret Berets Bivouac Call Enlist Enroll Forces Frenchman Frenchmen Gourmet Jul19 Lunch Outbreak Register Reserves Reservist Reservists Wine


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> Europe > France > Military

> Historic > World War I and II > Soldiers

> Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images August 2021


EDITORS COMMENTS
September 1939: A Moment of Respite Before War - French Reservists Enjoy a Lunch Break in London Amidst the looming shadows of war, a brief moment of tranquility unfolds in this evocative photograph. Taken in Bedford Square, London, in September 1939, the image captures a group of French reservists as they take a break from their preparations to register for military service. The trees provide a picturesque canopy, offering a momentary reprieve from the chaos and uncertainty of the impending conflict. Each man, clad in their distinctive berets, had been warned to bring their midday rations, as evidenced by the bottles of wine and food spread out on the grass. The scene exudes a sense of camaraderie and solidarity, as these future soldiers share a meal and a moment of respite before the realities of war set in. As the first call for reservist troops was issued just after the outbreak of World War II, this photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the massive response to the crisis. The French forces, united and determined, were ready to join their Allied counterparts in the fight against the Axis powers. The soldiers' gourmet spread, a testament to their national pride and spirit, adds an unexpected touch of humanity to the otherwise grim narrative of war's onset. This evocative image, captured by the Illustrated London News Ltd and featuring the distinctive Mary Evans watermark, offers a unique glimpse into the early days of the Second World War. It stands as a testament to the courage and resilience of the French soldiers and their unwavering commitment to their country and the Allied cause.

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