US President Joe Biden on Wednesday began a state visit to France as the country marks 80 years since the D-Day landings in Normandy. Three days of ceremonies will pay homage to the victims of Nazi occupation.
The largest military invasion by sea in history counted more than 10,000 casualties and became a pivotal moment in the war against Nazi Germany.
Along with French President Emmanuel Macron, British King Charles III and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Biden will on Thursday remember the heroism of the Allied troops who sacrificed their lives on 6 June, 1944.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italian President Sergio Mattarella will also be present at the commemorations in Normandy as a sign of international post-World-War-II reconciliation.
This year’s anniversary is likely the last major commemoration in which D-Day veterans, now nearing 100 years old, are on hand to bear witness.
Some 200 veterans are expected to attend – a number that dwindles every year.
Biden, who was greeted early Wednesday at Orly airport by Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, will spend five days in France.
He will speak at the formal 80th anniversary ceremony on Thursday, while on Friday he will deliver a high-profile speech on the power of democracy from the famed Pointe du Hoc cliffs that separates Omaha and Utah beaches, where American troops landed.
(with newswires)
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Daniel Miller is a sports fanatic who lives and breathes athletics. His coverage spans from major league championships to local sports events, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis for sports enthusiasts.
