Sixth June marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a pivotal point in the Second World War when over 150,000 British, Canadian, and American troops stormed the beaches of Normandy to take control from the Axis powers. The King, The Queen, and The Prince of Wales attended a commemoration in Portsmouth on Wednesday to remember the anniversary and the “greatest generation.”
King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Prince William were in Portsmouth on Wednesday morning, along with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, for a commemorative event at Southsea Common.
Dame Helen Mirren narrated the ceremony which featured testimonies from soldiers who took part in D-Day operations on large screens and performances from several military bands.
The Prince of Wales also made a touching speech at the event thanking soldiers for the efforts, dedication, and sacrifices during D-Day. He read excerpts from a letter that Captain Alastair Bannerman of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment wrote to his wife just before the operation began, sharing how it felt before the landings.
Prince William finished his speech with a heartfelt sentiment: “We will always remember those who served and those who waved them off. The mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, sons and daughters who watched their loved ones go into battle, unsure if they would ever return.
“Today we remember the bravery of those who crossed this sea to liberate Europe. Those who ensured that Operation Overlord was a success. And those who waited for their safe return.“
The King and Queen joined The Prince of Wales in chatting with D-Day veterans who were the guests of honour. King Charles also gave a moving speech, thanking veterans and highlighting the importance of remembering these conflicts.
“It is our privilege to hear their testimony, but our role is not purely passive: it is our duty to ensure that we, and future generations, do not forget their service and their sacrifice in replacing tyranny with freedom….
“So, as we give thanks for all those who gave so much to win the victory, whose fruits we still enjoy to this day, let us, once again, commit ourselves always to remember, cherish and honour those who served that day and to live up to the freedom they died for by balancing rights with civic responsibilities to our country. For we are all, eternally, in their debt.“
