Middlebury to Unveil and Dedicate Rochambeau Monument Honoring French Soldiers on America’s 250th Anniversary, June 27

In a powerful tribute marking America’s 250th anniversary, the Middlebury Historical Society will unveil and dedicate a new monument honoring the French soldiers who played a pivotal—yet often overlooked—role in securing American independence On June 27, 2026, exactly 250 years after French troops encamped on Breakneck Hill, the Society will unveil and dedicate the Rochambeau Monument at Meadowview Park. The ceremony will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 190 Southford Road, Middlebury, and is open to the public. 

This historic tribute commemorates the 5,200 soldiers led by General Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, Comte de Rochambeau, who encamped in Middlebury on Breakneck Hill in 1781 enroute to Yorktown, and in 1782 on their return. Each regiment spent the night in Middlebury before continuing on to New York where they joined American forces on their way to Yorktown, Virginia. This alliance with American forces proved decisive in ending the Revolutionary War. 

The unveiling and dedication ceremony will bring together state and national dignitaries, representatives from French organizations, and the National Park Service, underscoring the enduring international friendship that helped shape the United States. The monument, a striking seven-foot-tall bronze statue, was created using the traditional lost-wax casting method by Prospect sculptor Tony Falcone. 

Sculptor Tony Falcone with clay version of the soldier in his Prospect, CT Studio

In a distinctive departure from existing tributes that portray General Rochambeau in cities such as Washington, Newport, and Yorktown, the Middlebury monument portrays an unnamed French soldier, symbolizing the thousands of individuals whose courage and sacrifice made American independence possible. 

 “They were ordinary soldiers, far from home, fighting for a cause that was not originally their own,” said Robert Rafford, President of the Middlebury Historical Society. “This is one of the most significant tributes to Rochambeau and the French army, not only in Middlebury, but in Connecticut,” Rafford, continued. “It will become a major attraction along the National Washington–Rochambeau Revolutionary Route.” 

Taking place just days before the nation’s semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026, this unveiling and dedication offers a timely opportunity to reflect on the international alliance and shared sacrifice that made American independence possible. Everyone is welcome to join in this meaningful tribute and celebration of history. 

About the Rochambeau Memorial Project 

The Rochambeau Memorial Project is being led by the Middlebury Historical Society to honor the French soldiers who marched through Middlebury during America’s fight for independence. The project includes a bronze statue by sculptor Tony Falcone, a granite base, and a landscaped plaza at Meadowview Park. The project is funded entirely through private donations, including a challenge grant from local businessman Larry Janesky. The Middlebury Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. To learn more or to contribute, visit www.middleburyhistoricalsociety.org.