D-Day

On the 6th of June 1944, over 150,000 soldiers, mainly British, American and Canadian, who made up the land, air and sea forces of the Allied armies, were brought together in a campaign to liberate Western Europe from Nazi occupation. Timing was crucial to allow for the right weather and tidal conditions – with the mission being postponed 24 hours due to foul weather. Codenamed ‘Operation Overlord’, it began just after midnight on the 6th, with paratroopers landing behind enemy lines to undermine the German defences, while a fleet of over 5,000 ships crossed the Channel, allowing for Assault troops to force advances inland. The destinations of the landings remained a secret; each beach was given its own code name, ‘Omaha, ‘Juno, ‘Gold, ‘Utah and ‘Sword’, further misleading the Germans into believing that a second, larger attack was taking place elsewhere.

The D-Day invasion remains significant in history for the role it played in the beginning of the end of World War II. The landings are considered to be one of the largest military operations ever and ultimately laid the foundations for the Allied victory, helped in part by Winston Churchill, the UK’s Prime Minister. By the end of August 1944, the Allies had liberated the entirety of France, and less than a year after, they accepted Germany’s surrender, bringing an end to Hitler’s regime. Their achievements were not accomplished without tremendous sacrifice, as the D-Day invasion resulted in thousands of Allied casualties. However, it can be agreed that Europe’s future democracy and stability was a result of all those who fought in D-Day, including those who never returned home. May 8th 1945, VE Day, marked a great day of celebration for the British public, led by George VI.

Every year, ceremonies are held across Normandy in honour of those who fought in 1944 and to pay tribute to their achievements and sacrifices. The most important commemoration of 2024 by far, this year marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, with a series of major events celebrating peace, liberty and unity across the world expected to occur. The international ceremony will take place on the 6th of June 2024 on Omaha beach, where many heads of state, veterans and officials will come together. Meanwhile, across the UK and on the five beaches in Normandy, beacons and lamps will be lit at 9:15pm, to bring people together as a nation to pause, reflect and give thanks. These lamps act as a symbol, representing the light of peace Allies brought out after six long years of conflict, costing thousands of lives on both sides.