Live updates: Europe marks the 80th anniversary of D-day with veterans gathering at Normandy
Watch live coverage of the commemorations of the 80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, France, as World War II veterans from the United States, Britain, and Canada mark 80 years since the Allied landings that helped lead to Hitler’s defeat.
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President Joe Biden, first lady Jill Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, and his wife Brigitte Macron highlighted the event. Biden connected the Ukraine war with what happened in WWII, emphasizing the importance of not walking away from Ukraine as the world faces the threat of Russia. He received the Legion of Honor along with other American veterans recognized for their contributions to WWII.
French President Emmanuel Macron awarded 11 U.S. WWII veterans with France’s highest distinction, the Legion of Honor, during the D-Day 80th-anniversary ceremony. The veterans, now between 98 to 104 years old, were honored for their service during WWII.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in France to join the D-Day events alongside Western leaders. Zelenskyy emphasized the courage and determination shown in the pursuit of freedom and democracy, drawing parallels between past and present struggles for unity and freedom.
French President Emmanuel Macron bestowed a Legion of Honor award on a 103-year-old female British veteran officer who created detailed maps that guided the crews of landing craft on D-Day. The veteran, Christian Lamb, was honored for her crucial contributions during WWII.
The Danish prime minister referenced the Ukraine conflict during the D-Day ceremony, highlighting the importance of supporting countries fighting for freedom and democracy.
Prince William praised the bravery and sacrifice of Canadian troops on Juno Beach, commemorating their contributions during WWII.
U.S. President Joe Biden engaged with American veterans of D-Day, celebrating their heroism and marking the invasion’s 80th anniversary.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and opposition leader Keir Starmer attended the British ceremony in France, honoring the veterans and pledging to never forget their sacrifices.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla led commemorations at the British Normandy Memorial, paying tribute to the fallen soldiers and emphasizing the importance of remembering their achievements.
The article concludes with accounts from attendees at the Normandy beaches, reflecting on the horror of war, the celebration of freedom, and the sacrifices made by the soldiers who fought for liberty. The commemoration serves as a poignant reminder of the courage and determination displayed during the D-Day landings 80 years ago.
