80 Years on From the Normandy Landings: A Remembrance

Remembering the sacrifices of the D-Day heroes

The 6th of June 2023 marks the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, a pivotal moment in World War II. On this day in 1944, Allied forces launched a massive amphibious assault on the beaches of Normandy, France, in an effort to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation.

The operation, codenamed Operation Overlord, was the largest amphibious invasion in history. It involved over 156,000 troops, 5,000 ships, and 11,000 aircraft.

The landings were a success, but they came at a great cost. Over 4,000 Allied soldiers were killed or wounded on the first day of the operation.

The legacy of D-Day

The D-Day landings were a turning point in World War II. They marked the beginning of the end of Nazi Germany's occupation of Europe.

The landings also had a profound impact on the post-war world. They helped to shape the global order that emerged after the war, and they continue to be remembered as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and hope.

Remembrance Day ceremonies

Remembrance Day ceremonies will be held across the UK and around the world on Sunday 12 November to mark the anniversary of the D-Day landings.

In London, the main ceremony will be held at the Cenotaph on Whitehall. The ceremony will be attended by the Royal Family, government officials, and veterans of the D-Day landings.

Other ceremonies will be held at war memorials and military cemeteries across the country.

A lasting legacy

The D-Day landings were a defining moment in history. They remind us of the sacrifices that were made by those who fought for our freedom.

We must never forget the lessons of D-Day. We must always strive to uphold the values of peace, democracy, and freedom.