Marsh Is.#494 Liberation of Paris - 1994 Imperforate Mint Issue
August 25, 1944 After D-Day, the Allies began reclaiming German-occupied territory in France. Their initial strategy was to avoid Paris, fearful of the responsibility of feeding two million Parisians. Retaking the city would also allow the Germans time to regroup and strengthen their lines. General Eisenhower had decided to go around the city, cut off its defenders from supplies and force a surrender. He only made Paris a priority when he learned that Hitler had ordered the city to be destroyed. German Lieutenant General Dietrich Von Choltitz disobeyed Hitler’s command; he could not bear to destroy what he considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful cities. On August 25, he ended the four-year occupation by surrendering to the Allies and jubilant citizens poured into the streets. Despite the joyous celebration, the war was far from over. Allied troops that were showered with affection during their triumphant march through the city were only marching on to another battle.
