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Originally Posted by Owen D  Thanks to adam I found this at te USNA site. World War II Photos 81. "A Frenchman weeps as German soldiers march into the French capital, Paris, on June 14, 1940, after the Allied armies had been driven back across France." 208-PP-10A-3. (ww2_81.jpg) |
This is quite incorrect. This scene is actually from a motion film taken in southern France (Marseille, I believe). The event taking place was a ceremony in which French regimental flags are being taken to North Africa to prevent their capture by the Germans. If I'm not mistaken, this occurred as the Armistice was being signed. Obviously, the man is overwhelmed with emotions at the symbolism of the army retreating to North Africa to save the regimental standards.
If you ever see this footage, look closely at the people immediately behind him, particularly to his right. You will notice people are applauding. Definately not a scene from Paris. It is unfortunately, one of the most misinterpreted images of the war regarding the Fall of France.