President Biden Honors D-Day Anniversary in Normandy

Normandy, France – President Joe Biden, alongside vital international allies, gathered in Normandy on Thursday to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the historic D-Day invasion, a pivotal moment in World War II that marked the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany. This significant event saw the Allied forces make a daring air and sea assault on Nazi-occupied France, leading to the defeat of Adolf Hitler’s forces in Europe less than a year later.

President Biden was joined by French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to honor the most crucial victory for the Western allies and the largest seaborne invasion in history. Biden’s visit to France includes events to mark the D-Day anniversary and discussions with key allies.

Reflecting on the events of 80 years ago, President Biden said, “What the allies did here far surpassed anything we could have done on our own. Together, we won the war.” He praised the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers, stating, “The men who fought here became heroes, given an audacious mission, knowing the probability of dying was real. However, they did it anyway, knowing things are worth fighting and dying for. Freedom is worth it. Democracy is worth it. America is worth it. Then, now, and always.”

Before a memorial ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery, President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden met with WWII veterans, presenting them with commemorative coins and expressing gratitude for their service. The president and congressional leaders honored these veterans at the ceremony, underscoring their heroism and the lasting impact of their sacrifice.

In his speech, Biden quoted Winston Churchill, calling the D-Day operation “the greatest, most complicated operation ever,” and emphasized the resolve and bravery of the soldiers who stormed the beaches of Normandy under dire conditions. “It was estimated that 80% of them would be killed within hours. But they were brave. They were resolute,” he noted.

Biden also addressed contemporary issues, linking the past to the present by highlighting the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He warned of modern-day tyrants and emphasized maintaining unity within the NATO alliance. “We cannot surrender to the bullies. If we do, freedom will be subjugated, all Europe will be threatened,” he stated, vowing continued support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.

The commemoration included a wreath-laying ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery and an Omaha Beach service attended by international leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The ceremony featured readings of letters from soldiers who participated in the D-Day invasion, known as Operation OVERLORD, which involved 7,000 ships, 195,000 naval personnel, and over 130,000 troops.

Looking ahead, President Biden is scheduled to speak at Normandy’s Point du Hoc cliffs to highlight the legacy of the soldiers who scaled those cliffs 80 years ago and discuss the enduring importance of democracy. The president’s visit will continue with a parade procession to the Elysee Palace and a wreath-laying at the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery, where WWI veterans are buried.

In addition to the commemorations, Biden will meet with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and hold extended discussions with President Macron on various global issues, including the Middle East, Ukraine, the Indo-Pacific, technology, and clean energy. The visit will culminate with a joint press appearance and a state dinner hosted by Macron.

This visit contrasts the 2018 decision by then-President Donald Trump to skip the D-Day anniversary trip to Normandy, citing bad weather, a widely criticized move.

The Haitian Tribune will continue to provide updates on President Biden’s visit and the ongoing commemorations in Normandy.