World leaders and veterans gather to honor 80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy | Global News

The 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy was marked with solemn ceremonies and moving tributes on Thursday. Veterans, now in their twilight years, gathered to remember the sacrifices made on that fateful day in 1944.

At the British ceremony in Ver-sur-Mer, veterans were honored as they shared their memories of the harrowing experience. Joe Mines, now 95, reflected on the loss of his comrades, while Ron Hendrey, a Royal Navy veteran, spoke of the lasting impact of that day on his life.

With the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, this year’s commemoration held a special significance. Leaders from around the world, including Britain’s King Charles, French President Macron, and U.S. President Biden, paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought on D-Day.

As the number of surviving veterans dwindles, this may be one of the last major ceremonies where they are present. The legacy of their courage and determination lives on, inspiring future generations to stand up against tyranny and defend democracy.

The day was filled with poignant moments, from Tom Jones’ performance to the emotional exchanges between world leaders and veterans. The message was clear – the sacrifices made on D-Day must never be forgotten, and the lessons learned from that day must guide us in the pursuit of peace and freedom.

As the sun set on the beaches of Normandy, the echoes of history reverberated once again, reminding us of the courage and resilience of those who fought for a better world.