Remembering Commandant Bernard Cabiro: A Tribute in Mont-de-Marsan
Let me tell you about a significant event that took place recently in Mont-de-Marsan, a city with a rich history and strong military traditions. On July 31, 2025, a heartfelt ceremony was held at the Centre Cemetery to honor the memory of Commandant Bernard Cabiro, a revered figure in the French Legion and parachute units. This was no ordinary day; it marked the 32nd anniversary of his passing, and many came together to pay their respects to a man whose life was marked by courage, dedication, and sacrifice.
The event was organized by the president of the Amicale des Brevetés Parachutistes Militaires des Landes, Lieutenant-Colonel Francis de Montaigne. Present were notable figures such as Philippe Mailhot, the delegate general of the Souvenir Français for the Landes region, the president of the Association des Membres de l’Ordre National du Mérite 40, and Olivier Cabiro, the son of Bernard Cabiro himself. Representatives from the veterans’ associations of the Legion and their flags were also part of the gathering. The atmosphere was solemn but deeply emotional, filled with respect and admiration for the legacy of Commandant Cabiro.
During the ceremony, Philippe Mailhot spoke about Cabiro’s remarkable military career. A wreath was laid on his grave, followed by a minute of silence, after which the French national anthem, “La Marseillaise,” and the anthem of the 2nd Foreign Parachute Regiment (2e REP) were sung by those present. It was a moving moment that honored a man who embodied the spirit and bravery of his generation.
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Bernard Cabiro was born in Mont-de-Marsan on August 7, 1922. He was the son of Paul and Marie Cabiro. His journey from a high school resistance fighter to a highly respected officer is inspiring. After initial acts of resistance during the German occupation, he was imprisoned in Spain but managed to escape and joined the French forces in Morocco. His military career was distinguished by participation in key campaigns such as Italy, the landing in Provence, and the triumphant march of General de Lattre’s army. He was wounded in the Haut-Rhin region but continued to serve with dedication.
His service extended to the Legion, where he became one of the first parachute officers. He was wounded multiple times, including severe injuries in Indochina that left him temporarily blind and required numerous surgeries. Despite these challenges, Cabiro volunteered repeatedly for difficult missions and was known for his resilience and leadership.
Later in life, after being involved in the 1961 Algiers generals’ putsch, he was imprisoned and temporarily removed from the army. However, he was reinstated and continued to serve in the reserves. Beyond his military career, he was active in local politics, serving as deputy mayor of Mont-de-Marsan for over a decade.
Commandant Bernard Cabiro passed away in 1993 in Bordeaux. His decorations include the Grand Officer of the Legion of Honor and numerous military citations recognizing his bravery and service. Today, he rests in peace at the cemetery in Mont-de-Marsan, but his legacy continues to inspire those who remember his sacrifices and commitment.
This annual tribute not only honors a heroic figure but also reminds us of the values of courage, patriotism, and dedication that Bernard Cabiro represented throughout his life. It’s a powerful story from Mont-de-Marsan that deserves to be shared and remembered.
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