Stone of Remembrance

After the Allied landings on June 6, 1944, growing numbers of Resistance fighters climbed the south-eastern edge of the Vercors to join the Maquis who had gathered in the mountains, which was now a very attractive proposition for them. But few men were on hand to guard these high, narrow passages when the 157th Alpine Reserve Division launched a widespread attack on July 21, 1944. Under the command of General Pflaum, the aim of the Germans was to crush the Vercors Maquis. In spite of the courage and bravery they showed during the fighting, the watchmen were quickly overcome by an enemy with superior numbers and weapons. The order to disperse was received on July 23, leaving military victory to the Germans. Resistance fighters from inside the plateau were also cut down when they tried to exfiltrate through the passes. This stone, placed symbolically at the foot of the Pas de la Ville, serves as a reminder of them.