Australia Commemorates Heroes on 80th Anniversary of D-Day
Australian servicemen played a crucial role in the land, sea, and air attacks that shifted the course of World War II in favor of the Allies.
On June 6, 1944, Australian forces participated in the D-Day invasion of Normandy beaches, an event commemorated by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the 80th anniversary of Operation Overlord.
In a parliamentary address on June 6, Mr. Albanese emphasized the significance of D-Day as a turning point in global history, with Australian forces contributing to the success of the operation.
Each year, D-Day is remembered to honor the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers from various Allied nations who took part in the invasion.
Memorials, museums, and cemeteries worldwide serve as reminders of the pivotal role played by the successful invasion of Normandy in World War II.
The success of D-Day marked the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany, as the Allies initiated a Western Front by liberating France.
With Germany forced to fight on two fronts, Allied forces advanced both from the West and the East, ultimately overpowering the enemy.
Approximately 3,200 Australian servicemen were part of the total fighting force of 156,000 during the assault on the southeast of the Cotentin Peninsula, fighting alongside allies from the US, UK, Commonwealth nations, and others.
Australia’s Role in the Invasion
Australian squadrons and personnel were integrated into Royal Air Force units, contributing to various missions such as fighter, bomber, and coastal commands.
Notable contributions include No. 453 (RAAF) Squadron providing air cover for the invasion fleet and 460 Squadron’s Lancaster Bombers supporting Utah Beach operations.
The Australian Navy, including the HMAS Australia, participated in naval operations, while Australian soldiers attached to British units joined the ground assault during Operation Overlord.
Over 14 Australian servicemen lost their lives during Operation Overlord, and hundreds more were killed in subsequent operations in France.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton emphasized the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers during D-Day.
Mr. Albanese highlighted the indebtedness of today’s Australians to the courageous actions of those who fought during D-Day, emphasizing the enduring importance of fighting for peace.
