As France gears up for the 80th-anniversary commemorations of D-Day, the nation is preparing to express its gratitude to World War II veterans. The ceremony at Omaha Beach is expected to host numerous heads of state, honoring the nearly 160,000 troops from Britain, the U.S., Canada, and other nations who landed in Normandy on June 6, 1944.
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that these celebrations, alongside the Paris Olympics, would be “France’s rendezvous with the world.” With many veterans making the journey for what might be their last visit, the French aim to say “merci” and show deep appreciation to those who played a pivotal role in liberating the country.