Normandy marks D-Day’s 79th anniversary, honors WWII veterans

World War II veteran Marie Scott vividly recalls D-Day, describing it as a cacophony of gunfire and anguished cries. The events of that day were commemorated on Tuesday with ceremonies honoring the brave individuals who fought for freedom during the largest naval, air, and land operation in history.

The remembrance not only honors the young soldiers who perished in Normandy but also underscores the ongoing conflict in Ukraine today, serving as a sobering reminder for veterans, officials, and visitors alike.

Early Tuesday, numerous reenactors arrived at Omaha Beach at daybreak to recognize the 79th anniversary of the assault that culminated in the liberation of France and Western Europe from Nazi control. Some presented flowers while others brandished American flags in tribute.

As a communication operator in Portsmouth, Britain, at the age of 17, Scott experienced the war largely through sound, transmitting messages between ground troops and high-ranking officers such as General Dwight D. Eisenhower.

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Recalling her experiences, Scott stated, “I was involved in the war. I heard gunfire, machine guns, bombing aircraft, and men screaming, shouting, and issuing orders.”

Her initial horror swiftly turned into determination, realizing the crucial role she had to play. Scott, who is about to turn 97, recognized D-Day as a significant moment in her life.

She expressed her dismay at the ongoing conflict in Europe due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, emphasizing that war should only be a last resort.

British veteran Mervyn Kersh, a D-Day veteran who landed on Gold Beach, urged Western allies to offer maximum military support to Ukraine, stating, “The only way to stay free is to be strong.”

Humorously, Kersh, now 98, added, “I’m still in the reserve, I’m waiting to go to Ukraine now. Next job.”

A ceremony was held Tuesday at the American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, which overlooks Omaha Beach and is the final resting place of 9,386 U.S. soldiers who lost their lives in the D-Day landings and subsequent operations. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman Gen. Mark Milley attended the ceremony along with WWII veterans.

For Gen. Milley, this occasion was an opportunity to spend time with troops who view him as a comrade as he approaches the end of his four-decade military career. Many current soldiers from the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions were present, some enjoying their leave while others reenacted the airborne assault of their predecessors.

International commemorations were later held at the nearby British Normandy Memorial, attended by officials from Germany and the principal Allied nations. French Minister of Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu and British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace were anticipated to be present.

Numerous visitors arrived at the American Cemetery ahead of Tuesday’s ceremonies to honor those who gave their lives. Jean-Philippe Bertrand, a visitor from Marseille, was deeply moved by the sacrifice made for his and his son’s freedom.

German professor Andreas Fuchs, currently teaching French in Berlin, brought young students to Normandy as part of an exchange program, emphasizing the importance of understanding the liberation of Europe and the significance of 80 years of peace.

Contributions to this story were made by Jeffrey Schaeffer, Nicolas Garriga, and Thomas Padilla

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