Les Braves II: At Water’s Edge
“The eyes of the world are upon you.”
- General Dwight D. Eisenhower, June 6, 1944
Les Braves II: At Water’s Edge was dedicated on the grounds of The War Memorial Association on May 25, 2023. The 50-foot-wide and 25-foot-tall sculpture is the official world-wide twin of Les Braves in Normandy, France, originally created for the 60th anniversary of the D-Day invasion and sculpted by French artist Anilore Banon.
The first sculpture, located in the Vierville-sur-Mer on Omaha Beach, has the same three stainless steel wings and towers which stand proudly as a lasting tribute to the western Allies that landed on Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944 during World War II. Drawn by our mission, Banon was delighted to recreate her significant sculpture in an American location, intentionally solidifying the connection between the two nations who fought and died together in World War II.
Les Braves II consists of three thematic elements:
The Wings of Hope
So that the spirit which carried these men on June 6, 1944 continues to inspire us, reminding us that together it is always possible to change the future.Rise, Freedom!
So that the example of those who rose against barbarity, helps us remain standing strong against all forms of inhumanity.The Wings of Fraternity
So that this surge of brotherhood always reminds us of our responsibility towards others as well as ourselves.
The waterside grounds of The War Memorial Association is the only publicly accessible space on Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe. Les Braves II and its park grounds include the Grosse Pointe Garden Center’s Trial Gardens and Veterans Gardens providing accessibility pathways for all mobilities, a grand yard that is the focal point for outdoor gatherings, concerts, classes, and finally, a space to just be. As a patriotic, cultural and community leader, it is our responsibility and honor to be a place for all people from all places; thus Les Braves Park II: At Water’s Edge serves as an enduring symbol that solidifies that belief. All of this in the shadow of a uniquely poignant sculpture, connecting us to the beaches of Normandy and the sacrifice offered 80 years ago. We hope you will join us - honoring our past and looking ahead to our bright future.
The War Memorial has stayed true to its original 1949 purpose of honoring veterans and enriching the lives of those in the community through programs and services. Les Braves II: At Water’s Edge reflects our inspired mission and its call to action – to be bold, courageous, and embrace humanity and community in fellowship. Our mission echoes this hope and with a rewed focus and commitment to serving those who have aided our country, and those who live, work and visit our community.
Would you like to be a part of history? Les Braves II: At Water’s Edge requires donations to cover the full cost of the sculpture, its installation, and upkeep.
If you are interested in supporting our mission’s impact and reach, please click the link below.
80th Anniversary of D-Day Ceremony June 6th, 2024
The 80th anniversary of D-Day celebration was one of the best-attended events in recent history at The War Memorial. The event featured a multitude of different activities and attractions including
CAF Rise Above traveling exhibit
Remarks from Brig. Gen. Michael Lalor and State Senator Kevin Hertel
Arsenal of Democracy Exhibit in the Patriot Gallery, featuring an installation from Michigan Military Technical & Historical Museum
1940’s inspired USO Show from Rhythm Society Orchestra
Video tribute to some of our WWII Veterans (view below)
About Anilore Banon
Artist Anilore Banon’s artwork is often a call to fight inaction and immobilism with monumental sculptures made alive by the reflection of natural elements against her pieces. She works metal, from steel to futuristic material, to provide life to her artworks in a permanent form. Banon tells of the immense power to change one’s destiny and transform the impossible.
She studied in Paris and has lived in the United States and Italy. Her journeys took her to China, South Africa, and the North Pole. She now works and lives in Paris where she installed her studio in an old forge, like a blacksmith's workshop.
A future-oriented artist, she’s currently working on an unprecedented art and science project, celebrating a gathered humanity: Vitae Project. Vitae will feature one million hands engraved on a deployable sculpture. Banon chose a magical and universal site for the permanent installation of the sculpture — the Moon.
In June 2024, Banon received the Women Who Make a Difference Award from The International Women Forum. The award celebrates the tremendous accomplishments and contributions that a IWF member has made to their communities and the world.
Les Braves II: At Water’s Edge Dedication Ceremony May 25th, 2023
The dedication ceremony for Les Braves II: At Water’s Edge showcased the spirit and genuine nature of The War Memorial and all who cherish American life. The evening featured fanfare and a performance by the U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, including Taps played by Michigan’s own SFC Jeffrey Northman. Grosse Pointe Farms mayor, Louis Theros emceed the ceremony which was highlighted by remarks from War Memorial Interim CEO, Maria Miller, Les Braves sculptor, Anilore Banon, who joined us all the way from Paris, France, as well as host of the history podcast History That Doesn’t Suck, Professor Greg Jackson. Anilore graciously delivered sand from Omaha Beach in Normandy, France which was spread at the base of each thematic portion of the sculpture by Anilore and Mary and Ron Lamparter.
Aside from all of that, what made this ceremony truly special and unforgettable was all of the active duty service members and veterans who were in attendance. We even welcomed in four World War II veterans who were formally recognized by U.S. Representative Jack Bergman, and given a certificate of recognition for their efforts in World War II by a representative from Senator Gary Peters’ office. You can watch the full ceremony below.
