Macron Honors French Resistance Hero Robert Birenbaum at 99

French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to Robert Birenbaum, a revered World War II French resistance fighter, who passed away at 99. Birenbaum joined the resistance at age 16, fighting alongside Missak Manouchian and Marcel Rajman within the FTP-MOI group, which was comprised largely of immigrant laborers fighting against Nazi occupation. Recognized as a "man of dedication," Macron highlighted Birenbaum's lifelong commitment to the values of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity in a message on social media.

In February 2024, exactly 80 years after Manouchian and 23 other resistance members were executed by the Nazis, Birenbaum was honored with their induction into the Panthéon. Birenbaum had the privilege of walking up the Panthéon steps with Macron during this poignant ceremony, underscoring his central role in preserving the memory of the resistance.

Born in Paris to a Jewish family from Poland, Birenbaum became a leather goods shopkeeper after the war. His son, Guy Birenbaum, reflected on his father's legacy and the emotional reunion now possible with his beloved wife, Tauba, whom he met on the day Paris was liberated on August 25, 1944. Macron described Birenbaum as an enduring example for future generations, embodying the spirit of French resistance and dedication to freedom.