Today, the American Battle Monuments Commission hosted a ceremony at Normandy American Cemetery to mark the 81st anniversary of D-Day, paying tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought during the historic invasion of June 6, 1944. Held at the hallowed grounds of the cemetery, the event brought together U.S. and French dignitaries, military leaders, U.S. World War II veterans and families from around the world to honor the fallen and the enduring spirit of freedom.
The welcoming remarks were delivered by ABMC Chairman Michael X. Garrett. The event included speeches from Secretary of Defense Peter Hegseth, French Minister of Defense Sebastien Lecornu, Chargé d’Affaires David R. McCawley and Vice Chief of the Joint Chief of Staff Adm. Grady. The invocation and benediction were offered by U.S. Navy chaplain Lt. Maxwell Abishai. The ceremony also featured a formal wreath-laying ceremony, accompanied by the playing of taps by a U.S. Navy band from U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, as well as a flyover by four C-130 aircraft.
“It is my solemn honor to welcome you to Normandy American Cemetery on this 81st anniversary of the D-Day landings,” said Garrett. “This is also an honor … because those whose spirits fortify these grounds live on through the men and women who fight for peace today … many as part of the same formations who trace their lineage to those who fought here.”
A special tribute was paid to the World War II veterans who attended the ceremony, some of whom had fought on the beaches of Normandy as young soldiers more than 80 years ago. Their stories of heroism and camaraderie remain a testament to the resilience and bravery that shaped the course of history. Veteran Wally King, 513th Fighter Squadron, 406th Fighter Group, 9th Air Force also delivered remarks.
“I’m humbled by the immense sacrifice that surrounds us,” said King. “These hallowed grounds are a testimony of courage, dedication and the unwavering result of those who gave their lives in pursuing freedom.”
Normandy American Cemetery is located in Colleville-sur-Mer on the site of the temporary American St. Laurent Cemetery, established by the U.S. First Army June 8, 1944, as the first American cemetery on western European soil in World War II. The site contains the graves of approximately 9,400 U.S. military dead, most of whom lost their lives in the D-Day landings and ensuing operations. In addition, more than 1,550 names are inscribed on its walls of the missing.
