We mark the 80th anniversary of one of the greatest, most complex and riskiest military operations in history.
A multinational, amphibious operation with so many critical moving parts and cloaked by sophisticated deception requires intricate planning, extraordinary innovation and skilled execution. So much depended on Operation OVERLORD and so much hope and responsibility weighed down the shoulders of those Allied service personnel who took part in D Day, the first day of the operation, which included the airborne landings and the storming of the Normandy beaches. For many, this would be their first experience of combat and the culmination of years of training and anticipation. They came from over 15 countries and the majority had not been professional soldiers, sailors or airmen, but had either volunteered or been conscripted and interrupted their old lives to play their part in freeing Europe from the yoke of occupation and tyranny of Nazism. It was through their efforts and sacrifice that Normandy was secured, providing the springboard for the subsequent liberation of France, the Low Countries and the invasion of Germany to crush and eradicate Nazism.
So many owe their freedom to those from this greatest of generations that it is fitting we continue to pay them the tribute they deserve. Events in Ukraine remind us how valuable peace and freedom are and that we should not take either for granted. And so, perhaps this time we rightly reflect on events 80 years ago with a rather more heightened sense of what was at stake for all those living under occupation by a repressive, evil regime.
We will not forget the sacrifice of those who had gone before. We commemorate their sacrifice and celebrate their achievements and those of our great country that did so much to fight on and build a coalition of Allies that could deliver complete victory. It was, after all, a defining moment for Western democracies.
Nor should we forget the needs of those present. The Ukrainians fighting for their freedom, identity, way of life and ultimate survival. Our Armed Forces, ensuring they have the people and resources they require to protect the nation. And our veterans who have earned our gratitude and deserve to be suitably looked after in return.
You can find the DDay80 Commemorative publication here: https://theveteran.uk/shop/ And more information on events in the UK and France here: https://dday80.campaign.gov.uk/