France prepares to express gratitude to World War II veterans on the 80th anniversary of D-day
PARIS—France is preparing to express its gratitude to World War II veterans returning to Normandy beaches for the 80th anniversary commemorations of D-Day. The event will mark the defeat of the Nazis and will include a ceremony at Omaha Beach with many expected heads of state honoring the almost 160,000 troops from Britain, the U.S., Canada, and other nations who landed in Normandy on June 6, 1944.
French President Emmanuel Macron said that D-Day celebrations, alongside the Paris Olympics, will be “France’s rendezvous with the world.” It will serve as an opportunity for the French to say “merci” or “thank you” to veterans, many of whom are making a strenuous trans-Atlantic journey despite their advanced age, fatigue, and physical difficulties.
Philippe Étienne, chairman of the Liberation Mission, emphasized the need to remember and express gratitude to the elderly veterans: “We will never forget. And we have to tell them.”
Mr. Étienne recalled the emotional experience of awarding the Legion of Honor to veterans as a former ambassador of France to the United States.
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“They were 18, 20, 22 when they liberated our country, when they gave us back our freedom,” he said. “Now 80 years later, they’re 100, 98, 102. It’s really incredible. Those are really courageous, humble people. They must feel our gratitude.”
Mr. Étienne also emphasized the importance of sharing the veterans’ testimonies with younger generations as the anniversaries approach.
Gen. Michel Delion, director-general of the Liberation Mission, stressed the importance of understanding the price of liberty for all citizens of democratic nations.
He added that civilians played a significant role in World War II and that the cohesion of nations and populations is crucial in facing current and future challenges.
Mr. Étienne emphasized the need to recognize the sacrifices made by everyone involved in the liberation of Europe, including populations from the former Soviet Union.
The article explains the impact of other key events and commemorations planned in France to honor resistance fighters, soldiers from the colonial empire in Africa, and civilians who suffered during the war.
Fabien Sudry, deputy director-general of the Liberation Mission, noted the strong mobilization across France to remember this significant period in history and mentioned plans for a nationwide operation to collect historical materials related to World War II.
