UCO Alumni Tribute Ceremony

Homage Ceremony for Former Students of the Catholic University of the West

• Date and Time: November 15 from 5:30 PM to 7:15 PM

Rediscovery of a Legacy:
Through the collaboration of the university library, a reservist, and history students, it has been revealed that nearly 200 former students of UCO died defending France in past conflicts.

A Well-Deserved Tribute:
Although a commemorative plaque was already dedicated to them within the University Palace, the military institutions will present the university with a replica of the 135th Infantry Regiment flag, the regiment that recorded the highest number of losses among our former students during World War I.

A Ceremony with deep meaning:

This solemn moment of presenting the flag holds major historical and symbolic significance. It will:

• Honor the memory of our former students and express our gratitude for their contributions to peace and freedom.
• Promote values of commitment, civic duty, and selflessness.
• Inspire future generations by sharing the example of these students who gave their lives for a cause greater than themselves.

Through this ceremony, UCO reaffirms its dedication to the values of humanity and closeness that define its identity. The university demonstrates that it remains a family to its alumni, even after their passing, and that it carries the memory of those who have contributed to its history.

Practical Information:
The homage ceremony for UCO alumni will be held on Friday, November 15, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 7:15 PM. This symbolic date marks the 149th anniversary of the inauguration of the Catholic University of the West and falls within the Armistice Day commemoration week of 1918.

• Mass at 5:30 PM in the Saint Thomas University Chapel, presided over by Bishop Emmanuel Delmas, Chancellor of UCO (access via 5 Rue Lafontaine).
• Military Commemoration at 6:45 PM in front of the University Palace.
  The event is open to everyone: the university community, UCO alumni, the families of fallen soldiers, and the general public are invited to join in this tribute.

Illustration:

Pierre de Farcy, Bachelor of Natural Sciences (1902). Officer of the 135th Infantry Regiment, died for France in 1914.
Jeanne Bohec, Mathematics student (1939). Resistance fighter.
Canon Georges Duret, Bachelor of Letters (1915). Resistance fighter, died for France in 1943.