80 years after the D-Day landings, the beaches of Normandy are once again the stage for commemorative events. This year’s anniversary takes on added poignancy due to the dwindling number of World War II veterans and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As veterans revisit their memories and fallen comrades, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s presence at the commemorations serves as a reminder that the lessons of World War II are not forgotten. The absence of Russia, due to its aggression against Ukraine, further highlights the current state of affairs in Europe.
The commemorations began at dawn, mirroring the moment when Allied troops stormed the beaches 80 years ago. The five code-named beaches – Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword – were the sites of intense fighting, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives. As the world pays tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice, concerns arise that the lessons learned from World War II are being forgotten amidst the ongoing conflicts.
One World War II veteran, Walter Stitt, reflects on the futility of war, stating that there must be another way to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence. However, he acknowledges that change may come too late for him. With each passing year, major anniversaries like D-Day will soon take place without any surviving veterans. Nevertheless, enthusiasts and tourists flock to Normandy to witness the historic occasion and honor the sacrifices made for freedom.
Becky Kraubetz, whose grandfather served in World War II, expresses her awe and gratitude for those who faced the hardships of war. She is humbled by their bravery and courage, particularly as she gazes across the English Channel and imagines what it must have been like to jump into freezing waters amid gunfire. The sacrifices made by Allied troops resonate deeply with her.
Christophe Receveur pays his own tribute to those who died on D-Day by unfurling an American flag. He believes that forgetting their sacrifices would be akin to letting them die all over again. As he folds the flag, Receveur also reflects on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the strain democracy and freedom face in the world today.
The atmosphere in Normandy is reminiscent of a fair, with World War II-era vehicles and reenactors adding to the ambiance. However, the question arises of what these anniversaries will mean once the veterans are no longer present. The dwindling number of World War II veterans serves as a reminder of the importance of commemorating their bravery and sacrifice while they are still here.
Throughout the day, ceremonies take place across various beaches to honor the different nations involved. King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak participate in a ceremony on Gold beach to honor British troops, while Prince William joins a ceremony for Canadian troops on Juno beach. President Joe Biden takes part in a ceremony at the American cemetery overlooking Omaha beach.
Among the attendees are women who played vital roles in World War II, contributing to the war effort by building weaponry and performing other essential tasks. Anna Mae Krier, a 98-year-old riveter, emphasizes that their efforts were not for recognition but to save their country and ultimately help save the world.
As the veterans are feted and their voices heard, their message is clear: never forget. The significance of the lives lost on the beaches of Normandy is not lost on Allan Chatwin, who served in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific. He expresses awe but struggles to find the right words to describe the magnitude of the events that took place on Omaha beach.
As the sun sets on this year’s D-Day commemorations, it serves as a reminder that we must strive to remember and learn from history. The sacrifices made by those who stormed the beaches of Normandy should never be forgotten, and their bravery and courage should continue to inspire future generations.
