The mayor of Vendargues, Guy Lauret, recalled that the term 'Padre' refers to a military chaplain, and highlighted Christian Chanliau's role with paratroopers. Residents of Vendargues remember his ministry at the Saint-Théodorit church and the Jean-XXIII – La Voie Domitienne parish, as well as his involvement in patriotic ceremonies. Many also recall his attentive listening and availability.
Guy Lauret also mentioned Padre Chanliau's military career, which led him to serve in Lebanon, Chad, the Central African Republic, Germany, Corsica, and Douaumont. He presented the Padre with the Combatant's Cross, followed by the National Recognition Medal, presented by Captain Guillaume Quatrepoint of the Foreign Legion.
The mayor explained the role of a military chaplain: 'A military chaplain, although an engaged non-combatant, protected by the Geneva Convention, is both a spiritual and moral support for their companions, and an advisor to command on ethical or religious matters.'
This ceremony, organized as part of the November 11th commemorations, took on a particular symbolic dimension, focusing on history, courage, self-sacrifice, and transmission – values embodied by 'Padre' Christian Chanliau.
