GI’S COMPANY: THE LIBERATION ROUTE RETURNS FOR A SECOND EDITION ON 15 NOVEMBER

INTERVIEW – PASCAL DECOMPTE, PRESIDENT OF GI’S COMPANY

Could you briefly introduce your association, GI’S COMPANY?

GI’S COMPANY brings together enthusiasts of Second World War vehicles. The association restores, exhibits and brings historic vehicles back to life through various events and commemorations.

How would you sum up the first edition of the freedom convoy?

The first edition drew a good crowd and allowed us to showcase our vehicles, thanks to strong public support. The route passed through several villages and ended with a fine ceremony in Bouzonville.

What values do you hope to pass on through this event?

Remembrance and passing history on to the younger generations.

How will this second edition, on 15 November between Colmen and Filstroff, unfold?

The second edition will set off from Colmen and stop in several villages to meet local residents, in order to share memory and history.

How many members does your association have today?

We have 42 members and volunteers. It’s a close-knit group that keeps this passion alive through our vehicles.

How are the historic military vehicles taking part in the event maintained and preserved?

What makes GI’S COMPANY unusual is that every vehicle is privately owned. Each owner restores their own vehicle personally. So these are not donated vehicles, as can be the case with various other associations.

Mechanics are an integral part of the passion that drives our association.

How do you fund the organisation of the freedom convoy?

Funding comes largely from the proceeds of the traditional festival we hold every year on 9 and 10 May.

We also receive a helping hand from the CCB3F as well as from various local councils.

What are GI’S COMPANY’s next projects?

Our upcoming projects will take us to Bastogne and Manhay, among other places, for the most dedicated among us, to round off the year.

We are also preparing our traditional festival, scheduled for 8 and 9 May 2027.

Any final words?

I would like to highlight the whole committee, which does an outstanding job all year round.

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Radio Tripoint thanks Pascal Decompte for his time and his answers, as well as all the members and volunteers of GI’S COMPANY for their commitment to historical remembrance