ON OMAHA BEACH, France (AP) — As the 79th anniversary of D-Day is marked with solemn ceremonies, World War II veterans and visitors alike gather at Omaha Beach to honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom during the largest naval, air, and land operation in history. The significance of this commemoration also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Ukraine today, as another war rages on the European continent.
Marie Scott, a World War II veteran who experienced D-Day firsthand as a communication operator in Portsmouth, England, vividly recalls the overwhelming sounds of gunfire, machine guns, and men’s screams. Now approaching her 97th birthday, Scott considers D-Day a pivotal point in her life. Reflecting on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, she expresses her disgust, emphasizing that war should only be undertaken as a last resort to solve problems, deeming it an atrocity.
Mervyn Kersh, a British veteran who landed on Gold Beach during the D-Day invasion, echoes Scott’s sentiments, urging Western allies to provide maximum military aid to Ukraine as a means to maintain freedom and peace. At 98 years old, Kersh humorously adds that he is ready to be deployed to Ukraine as part of his “next job.”
The American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, overlooking Omaha Beach, becomes the site of a poignant ceremony. It serves as the final resting place for 9,386 U.S. soldiers who lost their lives during the D-Day landings and subsequent operations. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, addressing a crowd of visitors and over 40 World War II veterans, emphasizes the duty to defend the principles for which the Allies fought. He pays tribute to the brave young men and women of Ukraine who are currently fighting for their country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
General Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also participates in the commemoration at the American Cemetery. As he nears the end of his own military career, Milley’s connection with the soldiers is palpable. Having commanded both the 82nd Airborne Division and the 101st Airborne Division, he considers being among soldiers as “home.” With the Normandy fields being hallowed ground for these divisions, Milley’s presence carries great significance. As he distributes commemorative coins and engages with the troops, it marks his final visit to Normandy as their top commander.
In a display of international solidarity, an additional ceremony is scheduled at the British Normandy Memorial. Officials from Germany and the nine principal Allied nations, including France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, are expected to attend. French President Emmanuel Macron commemorates the event alongside 100-year-old Leon Gauthier, the last surviving member of the elite French unit, the Kieffer commando, which was among the first to land in Normandy.
Visitors from various backgrounds pay their respects at the American Cemetery, reflecting on the sacrifices made for freedom. Jean-Philippe Bertrand from Marseille expresses his gratitude and acknowledges the unimaginable sacrifices made by the soldiers. He believes it is crucial for people to visit such sites to truly understand the magnitude of the sacrifices that have shaped their country’s history. German professor Andreas Fuchs emphasizes the importance of educating children about the liberation of Europe and the lasting peace that has been enjoyed for the past 80 years.
As the 79th anniversary of D-Day unfolds, the ceremonies serve as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals. The reflections of World War II veterans, along with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, call for a world where peace and diplomacy prevail over the atrocities of war. The spirit of remembrance and gratitude must guide our actions to ensure a better future for generations to come.
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