Vertical aerial photograph of the landings on Mike beach, Juno area, to the west of Courselles-sur-Mer, 6 June 1944.
Image courtesy of The Imperial War Museum.
Seventy years ago today, allied troops landed on the Normandy beaches amid the cacophony of shells and gunfire, running through the surf into the hell of battle. It was the biggest amphibious invasion in history, but the plan also contained an all out airborne and marine assault. They fought them on the beaches, in the air, and in the water. Such bravery.
They fought for our freedom today, we can't possibly comprehend what they saw, what they felt, but we can forever honour and remember them. My Grandad was still a teenager on those waters, I can barely believe he would have witnessed scenes such as these. Watching all the the veterans returning to Normandy this week has been emotional, but the still-strong camaraderie is utterly inspiring, and the matter-of-fact manner they speak about that day never fails to move me. It is almost incomprehensible to think what the world could be like today without them. No matter how much the modern world changes, we must remember all those who have faced the horrors of war. Lest we forget.
Commandos of 1st Special Service Brigade approach Queen Red beach, Sword area, c. 0840 hours, 6 June 1944. Sherman DD tanks of 13th/18th Royal Hussars and the specialised armour of 79th Armoured Division can be seen crowding together on the beach ahead. Image courtesy of The Imperial War Museum.
1 comment :
Well said. I've listened to some wonderful reporting about the ceremony on the radio this week, very moving. Gosh your grandad was young. Too young. What a lot we have to be thankful for. x
Post a Comment