Remembering D-Day France Commemorates 80th Anniversary of World War II Landings

Photo : AFP

Thursday, June 6, 2024, marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied Normandy, France, during World War II. This historic event, known as Operation Overlord, played a pivotal role in the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany and the liberation of Europe. As the world commemorates this milestone, it may also signify the final major observance involving living veterans, given their advanced ages.

Approximately 150 American veterans, 15 Canadian veterans, and over 40 British WWII veterans are expected to attend the events in Normandy, along with 25 heads of state and government, including US President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Notably absent from the guest list is Russian President Vladimir Putin due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to be in attendance.

To ensure the safety of attendees, the French Interior Ministry has deployed a significant security presence of 12,000 personnel.

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D-Day, originally scheduled for June 5, 1944, faced a 24-hour delay due to adverse weather conditions. It marked the commencement of the largest amphibious assault in history, with nearly 160,000 Allied troops landing on five code-named beaches: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword. Supported by thousands of aircraft, ships, and other vehicles, the operation aimed to establish a foothold in Western Europe and turn the tide of the war.

The human cost of D-Day was staggering, with thousands of Allied troops and German defenders killed or wounded. The sacrifices made by individuals like the "Bedford Boys" from Virginia, who suffered the highest per capita loss on D-Day, serve as poignant reminders of the bravery and valor displayed on that fateful day.

D-Day's success marked the beginning of the end for Hitler's regime, leading to the liberation of France and the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany. Less than a year later, on May 7, 1945, Germany surrendered unconditionally, bringing an end to World War II in Europe.

This year's commemoration holds particular significance amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, highlighting the importance of remembering the lessons of history and honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom and democracy.