On Sunday, in the once war-torn skies of Normandy, parachutists leaped from World War II-era planes, marking the commencement of a week of remembrance for the dwindling ranks of Allied forces who, 80 years ago, played a pivotal role in liberating Europe from Nazi tyranny. This event heralds a series of memorials dedicated to the veterans of D-Day, a key moment in the downfall of Adolf Hitler.
Fantastic reception for American WWII veterans in Paris as they arrive in France to celebrate the 80th anniversary of D-Day.pic.twitter.com/9scDig8PD2
— The American Conservative (@amconmag) June 3, 2024
Throughout the Normandy coast, where soldiers from the United States, Britain, Canada, and other Allied nations famously landed under intense fire on June 6, 1944, French officials and citizens, along with surviving veterans, are expressing their gratitude. These veterans, now in their late nineties or older, represent the last of a generation that changed the course of history.
Neil Hamsler, a 63-year-old former British army paratrooper, described his emotional journey across the English Channel aboard one of the three C-47 transport aircraft. He reflected on how, unlike the nighttime operations of D-Day, their daylight jump was unopposed by enemy fire, yet it underscored the profound sacrifices made by the young soldiers of 1944.
The commemorations, including fireworks, parachute jumps, and solemn ceremonies, aim to ensure that younger generations, amidst current conflicts such as in Ukraine, continue to remember the past. High-profile attendees expected at these events include U.S. President Joe Biden, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and British royals.
The Division showcases their operational capabilities as the world’s only air assault division during a demonstration in Carentan, France today.
The demonstration will be viewed by spectators throughout the world in Normandy, France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. pic.twitter.com/4AR1oOODV3
— 101st Airborne Div. (@101stAASLTDIV) June 2, 2024
During the commemorations, 70 jumpers, dressed in WWII-style uniforms, parachuted from the C-47s, receiving cheers from a massive crowd as they landed. The crowd was entertained with wartime tunes, and even a deer that dashed across the landing area became a spectacle.
The aircraft, including two named “That’s All, Brother” and “Placid Lassie,” are veterans of D-Day themselves and were part of the largest armada in history, which included numerous C-47s and other aircraft. These planes played a crucial role in securing strategic points inland and disabling German defenses to aid the beach landings.
The jumpers, an international group of civilian parachutists, including veterans, mirrored the actions of their forebearers. Dawna Bennett, at 61 the only woman jumper, felt overwhelmed by the historical significance as she parachuted into the same landscape that witnessed such monumental events 80 years earlier.
As World War II veterans gather in France to honor the anniversary, they share poignant reminders of the war’s horrors and the sacrifices made. Don Graves, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, spoke candidly about the brutal reality of war, emphasizing the importance of educating the youth about these historical events. The veterans, ranging in age from 96 to 107, traveled from Dallas to Paris to participate in these commemorations.
Pictures: Mass Parachute Jump over Normandy Opens Commemorations for 80th Anniversary of D-Dayhttps://t.co/pbwKNlRmNW
— Breitbart London (@BreitbartLondon) June 2, 2024
Ralph Goldsticker, a 96-year-old U.S. Air Force veteran, recalled his role during D-Day from his aircraft, highlighting the intense and strategic efforts made by the Allied forces to secure a victory. These veterans, who often remained silent about their experiences for decades, now seize the opportunity to share their stories, ensuring that the lessons and legacies of their generation endure.
Major Points
- Parachutists jumped from World War II-era planes in Normandy to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, honoring the Allied forces that participated in the pivotal operation.
- Veterans, now in their late nineties and beyond, returned to Normandy to pay tribute to fallen comrades and reflect on their historic contributions to the liberation of Europe.
- Commemorative events included parachute jumps, fireworks, and ceremonies attended by international dignitaries, aiming to pass the legacy of remembrance to younger generations.
- Notable WWII aircraft like “That’s All, Brother” and “Placid Lassie” participated in the event, symbolizing the massive air support that played a crucial role during the D-Day invasions.
- World War II veterans shared poignant memories and stressed the importance of educating the youth about the realities of war, reinforcing the message that war is a harrowing ordeal.
TL Holcomb – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
