A Canadian Veteran of the second World War greets onlookers in Normandy, Thursday, June, 6, 2024, - The Canadian Press / Adrian Wyld
On a sunny morning in Courseulles-sur-Mer, France, a Canadian ceremony commemorated the 80th anniversary of D-Day at Juno Beach. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, and Prince William attended the event, honoring the bravery of Canadian soldiers who fought there during World War II. Among the thousands in attendance were 13 Canadian veterans, the oldest being 104 years old.
Trudeau addressed the veterans, emphasizing the immense debt owed to them and the critical role Canada played in the Allied efforts. He highlighted the ongoing threats to democracy, such as misinformation and foreign interference, urging continuous defense of democratic values in honor of the sacrifices made by these soldiers.
Prince William described the Normandy campaign as the most ambitious military operation in history, acknowledging the heavy toll it took. On D-Day alone, 4,414 Allied troops were killed, including 381 Canadians. The subsequent 77-day Battle of Normandy resulted in significant casualties, with over 73,000 Allied forces killed and 153,000 wounded, alongside approximately 20,000 French civilians.
Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau, in a series of events commemorating this milestone, will also attend a ceremony at the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, where 2,049 Canadian soldiers are buried. The commemorations serve as a reminder of the profound impact of D-Day on the course of World War II and the enduring importance of upholding the freedoms for which so many fought and died.
