As the dawn broke over the Normandy coast, the memories of June 6, 1944, were as vivid as the morning sun. It marked 80 years since the D-Day landings—a pivotal point in World War II that saw Allied forces storm the beaches to fight a common enemy.

Now, decades later, world leaders and veterans gathered to honor both the fallen of yesterday and the fighters of today, against a backdrop of war in Ukraine that resonates with the past.

The ceremonies began with the solemn remembrance of the over 4,400 Allied soldiers who laid down their lives on that decisive day and the tens of thousands more, including French civilians, who perished in the ensuing Battle of Normandy. These somber moments were not just a tribute to past courage but also a poignant reminder of current conflicts.

French President Emmanuel Macron awarded the Legion of Honor to 11 U.S. veterans and a British female veteran, symbolizing the enduring gratitude towards those who fought for freedom.

Among the Americans honored was Edward Berthold, a pilot who flew 35 combat missions during World War II. In a heartfelt address, Macron said, “You came here because the free world needed each and every one of you, and you answered the call… You’re back here today at home, if I may say.”

The esteemed Legion of Honor was also bestowed upon 103-year-old Christian Lamb, recognized for her work in creating detailed maps that guided the D-Day landing crafts. She was lauded as one of the “heroes in the shadows” by the French president. These awards served as a testament to the bravery of both the visible and hidden contributors to the war effort.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s presence at the commemorations, along with U.S. President Joe Biden and other world leaders, bridged the gap between the historical and the contemporary.

President Biden linked the sacrifices of World War II to Ukraine’s current struggle for democracy. “To surrender to bullies, to bow down to dictators is simply unthinkable,” he expressed, emphasizing the importance of remembering the lessons of history to face today’s challenges.

On the beaches, the atmosphere was a blend of reverence and reenactment. World War II-era vehicles recreated the scenes from 80 years ago, while crowds gathered to pay their respects.

Veterans, some now centenarians, reminisced and grieved their fallen comrades, emphasizing a message that they hope will endure through generations: Never forget.

In the UK, the British Normandy Memorial hosted its first major anniversary commemoration since its opening in 2021.

King Charles III addressed the crowd, reflecting on the “supreme test” faced by the D-Day generation. He laid a wreath at the memorial which contains the names of 22,442 servicemen and women under British command who fell during the battle.

The Red Arrows and a Eurofighter Typhoon conducted a flypast, adding to the solemn grandeur of the day. Meanwhile, on Gold Beach, a military bagpiper played at the precise moment that British troops landed 80 years ago, an act of remembrance that echoed through time.

President Biden, speaking later at the American cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach, honored the sacrifices made and asked if we, in our “hour of trial,” would do the duty required of us, as they did. His speech highlighted the need to be “worthy of their sacrifice” to truly honor those who fought and died.

While the veterans are honored as VIPs during these events, there is an undercurrent of urgency to preserve their stories and the lessons of their sacrifices. With their numbers dwindling, the question arises: How will we remember once they’re gone?

Relevant articles:
– As the World Marks 80th Anniversary of D-Day Landings, Renewed War in Europe Is on Minds of Many, Military.com
– In pictures: The 80th anniversary of D-Day, bbc.co.uk
– As the world marks 80th anniversary of D-Day landings, with renewed war in Europe on minds of many, newsbreak.com
– WFMJ.com News weather sports for Youngstown, WFMJ.com