80 years later, the final heroes of Normandy make a triumphant return to France

As the sun rose over the beaches of Normandy this week, the world paused to remember the bravery and sacrifice of the thousands of American sons and Allied troops who embarked on the largest amphibious assault in history 80 years ago on June 6, 1944.

ABC News’ “World News Tonight” anchor David Muir and his team have spent the last five years documenting the stories of World War II veterans who landed on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day and the days that followed. These veterans, now in their twilight years, returned to Normandy for the 80th anniversary of the Allied invasion, many for the first time since they fought for freedom as young soldiers.

Among these heroes is Irving Locker, a 99-year-old veteran who vividly recalls the horrors of that fateful day in June. He was just 19 when he jumped into the frigid waters and faced the German forces attacking the beaches. Reflecting on his service, Locker emphasized that “freedom is not free” and expressed the importance of honoring the sacrifices made by his comrades.

Other veterans, like Jack Claiborne, Harold Himmelsbach, and Andrew “Tim” Kiniry, shared their harrowing experiences of landing on the beaches of Normandy and the lasting impact it had on their lives. These brave men, now in their twilight years, returned to Normandy to pay tribute to their fallen comrades and ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

As the world commemorates the 80th anniversary of D-Day, these veterans serve as a poignant reminder of the courage and resilience displayed by those who fought for freedom. Their stories are a testament to the enduring legacy of the Greatest Generation and a call to future generations to honor and remember the sacrifices made on that historic day.