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‘It was tough’: WWII veterans return to Utah Beach to commemorate D-Day

by Gabriel Martinez
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WWII veterans

Utah Beach, with its vast expanse of sand dancing in the strong wind and radiant sunshine, stirred vivid memories for Robert Gibson of his D-Day experience.

Recalling the moment he landed on June 6, 1944, alongside more than 150,000 Allied troops, the 99-year-old veteran described it as a tough ordeal.

Gibson joined dozens of World War II veterans, predominantly American and British, who made the pilgrimage to Normandy this week. They gathered to honor the 79th anniversary of D-Day, a pivotal assault that led to the liberation of France and Western Europe from Nazi control.

Memories of the intense battle flooded Gibson’s mind: “I remember the countless casualties. We had to maneuver around bodies just to reach the beach. Never forget, we were mere 18 or 19-year-olds. … I’m grateful I made it through.”

Gibson landed on Utah Beach during the second wave of the D-Day invasion, following the initial assault troops. He survived to fight on in Normandy and eventually pushed into Germany.

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He recounted his battalion’s first assignment: “We were tasked with guarding an ammunition dump, and on the first night, it got hit. We had no idea where to go. Bullets were flying everywhere. But we managed to dodge them.”

Andrew Negra also landed on Utah Beach but on July 18, 1944. This year marked his first return to the site, where he received a warm and overwhelming welcome from the local French people.

“Everywhere we went, people cheered and applauded. They’ve been doing this for countless years,” he marveled.

At 99 years old, Negra is the sole surviving member of his battalion. Despite braving the wind to take a short stroll on the beach, he couldn’t help but reflect on the many comrades they lost. He humbly remarked, “And here I am.”

Negra remained involved in combat operations until his division reached eastern Germany in April 1945.

On Sunday, more than 40 American World War II veterans, most of them in wheelchairs, formed a parade along the streets of the small town of Sainte-Mere-Eglise. This town witnessed thousands of paratroopers landing shortly after midnight on June 6, 1944.

Enthusiastic crowds cheered, offering their heartfelt gratitude with cries of “Merci” and “Thank you.” Children waved, and families eagerly sought photographs with the aging heroes.

Donnie Edwards, president of the Best Defense Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports World War II veterans in visiting former battlefields, expressed the significance of the occasion: “For us, every year is monumental.”

Considering the advanced age of these soldiers who fought over seven decades ago, Edwards emphasized, “Nothing is guaranteed. So we want to ensure they have an incredible and enjoyable experience.”

The veterans then proceeded to Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, where they participated in a brief ceremony at a monument honoring the U.S. Navy, which overlooks Utah Beach.

Inscribed in the stone, a solemn message read, “The fallen will never be forgotten. The veteran will ever be honored.”

Some of these near-centenarians requested the assistance of volunteers as they ventured onto the expansive stretch of sand.

Matthew Yac

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about WWII veterans, D-Day commemoration

Q: What is D-Day and why is it significant?

A: D-Day refers to the Allied invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, during World War II. It was a pivotal military operation that marked the beginning of the end for Nazi control in Western Europe. The successful assault led to the liberation of France and played a crucial role in the ultimate defeat of Germany.

Q: Who were the veterans returning to Utah Beach?

A: The veterans returning to Utah Beach were primarily World War II veterans, mostly Americans and British, who participated in the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944. They were part of the Allied forces that fought to liberate France and Western Europe from Nazi occupation.

Q: What happened at Utah Beach during D-Day?

A: Utah Beach was one of the five designated landing zones for the Allied forces during the D-Day invasion. It was targeted by American troops, and despite facing significant resistance and challenges, they managed to secure the beachhead and begin the liberation campaign in Normandy.

Q: How did the veterans commemorate D-Day at Utah Beach?

A: The veterans commemorated D-Day at Utah Beach by returning to the site, reflecting on their experiences, and participating in various ceremonies and events. They paid their respects to fallen comrades, received warm welcomes from local French people, and engaged in parades and ceremonies to honor their sacrifices.

Q: Why is it important to remember and honor the WWII veterans?

A: Remembering and honoring WWII veterans is crucial because they fought courageously and made immense sacrifices to protect freedom and defeat tyranny. Their bravery and dedication deserve our respect and gratitude. Commemorations like D-Day events allow us to pay tribute to their service and ensure their stories are passed on to future generations.

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