D-Day 80th Anniversary: Veterans Honored in Emotional Ceremonies

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Eighty years ago, on June 6, 1944, the Allied forces launched a massive invasion of Nazi-occupied France, marking a pivotal moment in World War II. Today, veterans, world leaders, and citizens gathered in Normandy, France, and Portsmouth, UK, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
King Charles and Queen Camilla Lead Tributes
King Charles, accompanied by Queen Camilla, paid tribute to the brave soldiers who embarked on the historic mission from Portsmouth. He acknowledged the debt of gratitude owed to the veterans and emphasized the importance of remembering their service and sacrifice.
Veterans Receive Standing Ovation
D-Day veteran Roy Hayward, who lost both legs in the conflict, received a standing ovation as he walked on stage in Portsmouth. He represented the "men and women who put their lives on hold to go and fight for democracy and this country."
Princess Anne and Dame Helen Mirren Attend Ceremonies
Princess Anne, President of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, laid a posy on the Grave of an Unknown Soldier, while Dame Helen Mirren led the national commemorative event in Portsmouth, praising the bravery of the D-Day veterans.
Military Paratroopers Replicate Historic Jump
Over 300 military paratroopers from the UK, US, Canada, and Belgium conducted a parachute-jump display near Sannerville, Normandy, recreating the historic jump of June 6, 1944.
Ceremonies Across Normandy
In Bayeux War Cemetery, Royal Air Force veteran Bernard Morgan, 100, saluted the fallen, while in Colleville-Montgomery, veteran Alec Penstone, 98, attended a memorial service. The Princess Royal met with veterans, including Fred Ayton, 98, who served in the Royal Navy.
French President Emmanuel Macron Pays Homage
President Macron honored the Saint Marcel maquis, a force of French Resistance fighters and the French SAS paratroopers, in Plumelec, Brittany.
Veterans Return to Sword Beach
John Life and Donald Jones, along with other veterans and family members, returned to Sword Beach, where they were saluted by a modern RAF transport aeroplane.
Personal Stories and Reflections
Gene Kleindl, 102, a US Army medic, visited the grave of his friend Ralph Gaddis at the Normandy American Cemetery, while Jack Mortimer, 100, reflected on his experiences on Sword Beach.
The 80th anniversary of D-Day serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the Allied forces and the importance of preserving their legacy for future generations.

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