In France, more than 60 World War II veterans from Dallas will gather for ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day. This group of heroes, ranging in age from 96 to 107 years old, is being flown to Paris by American Airlines for the occasion.
The veterans will participate in a range of events such as wreath-laying ceremonies at Suresnes American Cemetery, visiting the Eiffel Tower, and attending le Ravivage de la Flamme at the Arc de Triomphe. After their time in Paris, they will travel to the Normandy region for additional ceremonies at Omaha and Utah Beaches, historic landing sites for Allied forces during D-Day on June 6, 1944. This amphibious operation was a crucial turning point in World War II’s European Theater, with over 160,000 Allied troops participating, including 73,000 Americans.
Among those traveling are two “Rosie the Riveters,” representing the women who played essential roles in factories and shipyards during the war. Hundreds of thousands of women from Allied nations worked in various crucial non-combat roles throughout the war, such as codebreakers, radar operators, and cartographers. Their contributions were vital to the war effort.
In France, numerous ceremonies will take place to remember and honor these brave men and women for their service and sacrifices. Despite their advanced age and physical difficulties, many veterans continue to make long journeys overseas to attend these events. As Philippe Étienne stated: “We will never forget. And we have to tell them.” The veterans’ bravery and resilience will be honored for generations to come in France this year.
