Members of the royal family and veterans are gearing up to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the historic D-Day landings. The King, Queen, and Prince of Wales will travel to Normandy to participate in a series of events on Thursday. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is also expected to join Charles and Camilla at the British Normandy Memorial in Ver-sur-Mer.
On the eve of the anniversary, hundreds of Armed Forces personnel will parachute into a historic D-Day drop zone in France, reenacting the airborne liberation of Normandy that took place 80 years ago. The sun will rise over Juno Beach near Graye-sur-Mer, casting a poignant light on the solemn occasion.
However, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight aircraft will not be participating in this year’s D-Day commemorations. An ongoing investigation into the death of pilot Mark Long, who tragically lost his life in a Spitfire crash near RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire last Saturday, has led to their absence.
Normandy veterans, many of whom are now centenarians, are making their way to northern France to pay tribute to their fallen comrades. Second World War veteran Richard Aldred expressed his emotions, saying, “When I go to Normandy, I’ll guarantee to you I will shed a tear.” These brave men and women, who played a pivotal role in history, continue to inspire generations.
Among the centenarians is Jim Miller, who received a surprise invitation to Buckingham Palace. There, he was presented with a heartfelt birthday card from the King, recognizing his service and sacrifice.
The days leading up to the anniversary are filled with commemorative events. On Monday, D-Day veterans will meet local schoolchildren in Portsmouth, the nerve center of D-Day operations 80 years ago. They will then tour Southwick House, where General Dwight Eisenhower directed operations during the critical campaign.
Tuesday will see the veterans sail from Portsmouth across the Channel, retracing their momentous journey from eight decades ago. Royal Navy vessels in Portsmouth Harbour will sail past in formation, paying homage to their courage and resilience.
Finally, on the eve of the anniversary, a national commemorative event will take place in Portsmouth. Charles, Camilla, and Mr. Sunak will attend, and later in the evening, a light show will evoke memories of the treacherous sea crossing undertaken by the brave soldiers 80 years ago.
