Strasbourg
A fast French battleship that escaped a British attack and became the Vichy navy's flagship.
Specifications
History
The Strasbourg was a fast modern battleship designed to chase down enemy raiders on the high seas. It featured two heavy forward gun turrets holding eight 13-inch cannons. In July 1940, the ship was anchored at Mers-el-Kébir in Algeria when the British navy attacked to keep French warships out of German control.
In a daring escape under heavy fire, the Strasbourg slipped out of the harbor and raced across the Mediterranean Sea to Toulon in southern France. There, it served as the flagship for the main Vichy French naval fleet for the next two years.
In November 1942, German soldiers launched a surprise raid to seize the warships anchored at Toulon. Rather than hand the ship over to Nazi Germany, French naval officers ordered the crew to scuttle the Strasbourg, opening valves to sink it into the shallow harbor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Used In
Combat Medals & Awards
Badge of the Milice Française
An official service insignia worn by members of the Vichy paramilitary force fighting French Resistance fighters.
Commemorative Medal for Syria-Cilicia with 'Levant 1941' Clasp
A campaign medal bar awarded to Vichy forces defending Syria and Lebanon against Allied forces in 1941.
Croix de Guerre (Vichy)
A bronze military cross awarded by the Vichy French regime for acts of bravery in World War II combat.
Croix de Guerre for the Legion of French Volunteers
A rare military cross created for French volunteer troops fighting on the Eastern Front against the Soviet Union.
Croix du Combattant 1939–1940 (Vichy)
A modified combat veteran cross created by Vichy to honor soldiers who saw frontline service in 1939 and 1940.
Medal of Merit for Black Africa
A bronze decoration awarded to native colonial troops serving the Vichy regime in African territories.
Order of Work Merit (Vichy)
An order created to reward exceptional labor, industrial effort, and economic support for the Vichy state.
Order of the Francisque
A prestigious badge shaped like an ancient battle-axe given to loyal supporters and officials of the Vichy regime.
Vichy Colonial Medal
A colonial service medal adapted by Vichy France for troops serving across its overseas empire.
Wounded Insignia (Vichy Issue)
A specialized wound decoration authorized by Vichy France for service personnel injured in wartime combat.
