Anyone finding themselves in Paris should make it a point to visit the Musee De L'Armee, or the French Army Museum located adjacent to Napolean's tomb in the heart of the city. There are quite a number of French, German and British small arms on display, tracing France's wars through the centuries. Of interest are several 19th century French revolvers as well as the infamous Chauchat, perhaps the worst automatic weapon ever fielded in war. Also on display were German artillery Lugers with detachable stocks and an assortment of early bolt action military rifles in "museum" condition.
I'd like to add that those persistant rumors of a so-called anti-American attitude by the French proved to be total nonsense. The people couldn't be friendlier or more helpful. In fact, the only anti-Americanism we encountered was at New York's JFK Int'l Airport where uniformed security people (glorified parking and restroom attendants), enjoying a sliver of authority over travelers, like to act like Napoleon and swagger around like Mussolini.
I also visited Normandy and you'll have to trust me on this: French citizens regularly visit local memorials and exhibits as well as the American Military Cemetery at Omaha Beach and they remain forever grateful to the Allies for pushing the Nazis out of their country.
I'd like to add that those persistant rumors of a so-called anti-American attitude by the French proved to be total nonsense. The people couldn't be friendlier or more helpful. In fact, the only anti-Americanism we encountered was at New York's JFK Int'l Airport where uniformed security people (glorified parking and restroom attendants), enjoying a sliver of authority over travelers, like to act like Napoleon and swagger around like Mussolini.
I also visited Normandy and you'll have to trust me on this: French citizens regularly visit local memorials and exhibits as well as the American Military Cemetery at Omaha Beach and they remain forever grateful to the Allies for pushing the Nazis out of their country.
