The founding President of the Armada is organizing its last edition. Return to the journey of a dreamer, passionate about sailing, and committed to his city.
In 2019, the Armada, organized by the “Armada of Liberty” Association, celebrates its 30th anniversary. This international gathering of the most beautiful sailboats and warships on the quays of the Seine in Rouen would never have seen the light of day without Patrick Herr, its founding President. A true success in 7 editions, the Armada owes everything to the one who knew how to keep the event going on simple principles: the unparalleled passion for the Giants of the seas, the federation of all local authorities and the State, free of the event for all visitors, and the loyal commitment of more than 400 volunteers.
From a young age, a passion for sailing
Patrick Herr was born on May 21, 1945 in Rouen. He is the son of the Rouen watercolor painter, François Herr, Director of the Rouen School of Fine Arts. From his earliest childhood, he developed a real passion for the nautical field: he learned to swim and then sail with his father in Anneville-sur-Seine. At the age of 15, Patrick Herr won the title of French Champion of vaurien, a category of dinghies.
The Politician: the spiritual son of Jean Lecanuet
He studied law at the University of Rouen and began his professional career as a bailiff. Elected to the city of Rouen in 1977, he began his mandate as municipal councilor at the age of 32, and from his second mandate, in 1983, he was elected deputy mayor. Jean Lecanuet will be his mentor. In 1994, he was elected General Councilor, then in 1995, Regional Councilor. From 1996 to 2007, he will be Deputy for Seine-Maritime. Already a Knight of the Order of Merit and Knight of the Legion of Honor since 1995, Patrick Herr received the title of Officer of the Legion of Honor in 2011.
A discreet, authoritarian but warm man
In his entourage, Patrick Herr is known as “a discreet man, who does not much like speeches or conflicts” according to Valérie Fourneyron, former Mayor of Rouen. Authoritarian, he runs his event alone and wants to remain the sole master on board. “Its main asset is knowing how to unite the energies around it” according to Philippe Chastres, Director General of Armada 2019. For Admiral Pierre-François Forissier, Chief of Staff of the French Navy from 2008 to 2011, “Patrick Herr started this adventure from nothing, and his journey is similar to that of an entrepreneur. However, this “family atmosphere” side of the Armada is extraordinary.” “What we do most while working alongside Patrick is to laugh,” says Laurence Philippot, General Coordinator of Armada 2008. “He's a dreamer, an artist,” explains Nina Herr, his wife. And for all the volunteers who wished him on May 21 on his 74th birthday, it was just “Patrick, our President”, very moved by so much affection.
