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Legacy endures: Visitors gathered to honor heroes of D-Day
Today amidst the approximately 9,400 white headstones, the American Battle Monuments Commission commemorated the 81st anniversary of D-Day at Normandy American Cemetery.
The ceremony gathered U.S. and French dignitaries as well as visitors to honor the World War II veterans present and those who gave their lives for freedom on the shores of Normandy in 1944.
The welcoming remarks were delivered by ABMC Chairman Michael X. Garrett. The event included speeches from Secretary of Defense Peter Hegseth, French Minister of Defense Sebastien Lecornu, Chargé d’Affaires David R. McCawley, and Vice Chief of the Joint Chief of Staff Adm. Grady. The invocation and benediction were offered by U.S. Navy chaplain Lt. Maxwell Abishai. The ceremony also featured a formal wreath-laying ceremony, accompanied by the playing of taps by a U.S. Navy band from U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, as well as a flyover by four C-130 aircraft.
“It is my solemn honor to welcome you to Normandy American Cemetery on this 81st anniversary of the D-Day landings,” said Garrett. “This is also an honor … because those whose spirits fortify these grounds live on through the men and women who fight for peace today … many as part of the same formations who trace their lineage to those who fought here.”
D-Day veterans return to sacred ground
Among the honored guests were approximately 30 surviving World War II veterans. Their presence brought a powerful emotional depth to the event, as they stood once more on the ground where they fought for freedom 81 years ago.
A special tribute was paid to the World War II veterans who attended the ceremony, some of whom had fought on the beaches of Normandy as young soldiers more than 80 years ago. Their stories of heroism and camaraderie remain a testament to the resilience and bravery that shaped the course of history. Veteran Wally King, 513th Fighter Squadron, 406th Fighter Group, 9th Air Force also delivered remarks.
While the number of living World War II veterans continues to dwindle, ABMC’s responsibility is to preserve their stories and the ideals they fought to pass them to the new generations. ABMC’s mission is not only to honor the past but to commit to the future fulfilling Gen. Pershing’s mission that, ‘Time will not dim the glory of their deeds.”
“I’m humbled by the immense sacrifice that surrounds us,” said King. “These hallowed grounds are a testimony of courage, dedication and the unwavering result of those who gave their lives in pursuing freedom.”
The American Battle Monuments Commission’s mission is to honor the service of the U.S. armed forces by creating and maintaining memorial sites, offering commemorative services, and facilitating the education of their legacy to future generations.
