Much of the significance of the initial “generals’ letter” or “tribune des militaires” depended on the relation, or lack of it, of retired officers’ sentiments to active servicemen’s intentions. But Valeurs actuelles have just this evening (9 May 2021) published a text that the editors describe, in their prefatory note, as coming from active servicemen. An English translation follows.
For some days a rumour has been circulating that a new tribune des militaires would be unveiled. Coming from active servicemen, it offered support to that previously published on the site of Valeurs actuelles. [English translation here.] This evening we have decided to publish this text, which has already circulated a good deal, and which was echoed in the media. And also to open it, below the article, to the signatures of French citizens who judge it to be up to the challenges that face us. All the while continuing, with a rigorous methodology, to put ourselves at the disposal of the professionals of the armed forces who desire to take part. Like its predecessor, the purpose of this article is not to damage our institutions, but to warn of the gravity of the situation.
