Thanks for the info:
dreadnaught: I'll do a google for French navy and see what they have. I really didn't think about the dark gray deck color but you're right. After WW2 any deck stains would have been removed and the decks returned to holystoned wood. After all, keeping those decks looking good makes for plenty of work for idle sailors.
Searat: I agree with you about Dunkerque and Strasbourg. I built Hellers Dunkerque many years ago and always liked the ship's looks. Also like the looks of the WW2 Italian BB's too. They are all very classy, elegant looking ships.
"Whoever said the pen is mightier than the sword obviously never encountered automatic weapons"
General Douglas Macarthur