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Normandy, France – The return of forty-five U.S. veterans to Normandy, France, on the occasion of the 79th anniversary of the D-Day invasion, was marked by warm salutes and hearty congratulations, a sharp contrast to their reception back in 1944. A salute from Maj. Gen. Jeffery Broadwater, dignitaries, civic leaders, corporate sponsors, and the public marked their arrival at the Deauville-Normandie Airport.
Among the attendees of the commemorative event were the “Ivy Soldiers” of the 4th Infantry Division, contributing to the Army’s representation with their band, an honor guard, and a robust troop formation. The gathering, featuring around 250 attendees, showcased a unity that spanned generations.
In his address, the Deputy Commanding General offered his gratitude to the event organizers, French officials, and the supporting soldiers. However, he emphasized his deepest admiration for the veterans themselves.
“I wish to extend the warmest thanks to the real VIPs of today’s event – the veterans who have come to symbolize the campaign they took part in. Your representation of our nation is as honorable now as it was 79 years ago. Your selflessness and heroism remain awe-inspiring to us all,” he said.
The veterans, most of whom are over or approaching the century mark, were greeted warmly as they disembarked from the aircraft, met with cheers from the soldiers, band, and the crowd of attendees. The event, organized by the Best Defense Foundation, was the second in a series of envisioned annual commemorations.
The lead of the event, Marie-Pascale Legrand, emphasized the significance of the occasion, especially for the veterans. She said, “For about half of them, this is their first trip back to France since the war. Having the participation of American units and various organizations in this week’s activities is an honor.”
The bond between France and the U.S. was also highlighted by French Gen. Laurent Michon, who spoke warmly of the enduring relationship and the gratitude towards the veterans for their sacrifices.
The event concluded with the introduction of former Sgt. Anthony Negra Jr., a 99-year-old Pennsylvania native who served during the Normandy campaign. He expressed his appreciation for the French citizens who had welcomed him and his fellow U.S. Soldiers 79 years ago.
“For every little town that we went through, they were out there in the streets, waving at us, giving us wine, giving us eggs, giving us anything they had,” Negra recalled. “And we thank them to no end…. We thank you with all our hearts.”
These celebrations remind us of the timeless courage of these veterans and the pivotal role they played in the liberation of Europe. Their stories, such as that of Jake Larson, who enlisted in the National Guard at 15 and participated in Operation Overlord, underscore the bravery of those who served during this historic campaign.
This event celebrates not only the contributions of the veterans but also the special bond between France and the U.S., as we remember the sacrifices made and the heroism displayed in the face of unprecedented adversity.
Source: US Army
