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Commemorating D-Day 80 years on

Today marks 80 years since the D-Day landings – a pivotal moment in World War II which was a fundamental step in liberating Europe from Nazi occupation.

Codenamed Operation Overlord, D-Day was one of the largest amphibious military assaults in history and involved meticulous planning and coordination among the Allied forces. British forces (and personnel from countries that now form the Commonwealth who served under British command) played an indispensable role as part of an Alliance that included America, Canada, Norway, and other nations.

Tens of thousands of British soldiers, sailors, and airmen risked and gave their lives during the D-Day operations. Providing vital support to Operation Overlord’s success were thousands of women, in and out of uniform, providing nursing, intelligence work, code breaking and logistics. While the impact of the lives lost on families and communities was significant, their bravery and sacrifice were crucial to the success of the invasion and the eventual defeat of the Axis powers. It should also be remembered that more French civilians were killed during the D-Day bombardment of Normandy, than Allied Servicemen on D-Day itself.

The eightieth anniversary of the start of this historic operation provides an opportunity to ensure that future generations appreciate the sacrifices made to secure the freedoms enjoyed today and underscores the importance of international unity in facing global challenges.

I was very honoured to attend the Commonwealth War Graves Commission 'Lighting Their Legacy’ event at the Scottish National War Memorial last week. It was a huge privilege to witness two veterans of the Normandy campaign pass a Torch of Commemoration to a young person from the Sea Cadets. This moving ceremony which has been conducted throughout the UK, serves as a reminder of the ingenuity, courage and resilience that was employed to defeat tyranny.

D-Day and the Normandy campaign saw men and women from ordinary, civilian backgrounds, many conscripted, become part of a unique and extraordinary operation. This is movingly articulated in the prayer written by General Dwight D Eisenhower, Supreme Allied Commander:

“We give thanks for all those, from many nations, who set forth upon a mighty endeavour, to preserve our Nations, our religion, and our civilisation and to set suffering humanity free. We remember those individuals who were drawn from the ways of peace who fought not for the lust of conquest but to end conquest and gain liberty, justice, tolerance, and good will among all God’s people…they did not give up until victory was won.”

The bravery and dedication of Scottish sailors, soldiers, and airmen were vital to the success of the Normandy invasion and the subsequent liberation of Europe. Remembering their contributions, whether by attending one of the local and national events keeps their memory alive and ensures that the sacrifices made for freedom and peace are never forgotten.