On 6 June 1944, tens of thousands of allied forces took part in the largest land, air and sea operation in history. The heroism of those who landed on the Normandy beaches was a beacon of light to the world in the dark days of the World War 2.
Now, eighty years later, local residents are being invited to join the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Councillor Rob Higgins as the nation pays tribute to the heroes of the Battle of Normandy.
On Thursday 6 June 2024, people across the nation will come together to commemorate those who’s service on D-Day helped secure the peace and freedom we enjoy in the UK today.
From early in the morning, when the sun rises, we will remember how much was sacrificed on D-Day. Across the country church bells will ring, special flags will be flown, children will learn about the bravery of their great‑grandparents generation, town criers will proclaim the victory just as they did eighty years ago and the haunting sound of bagpipes will fill the air. Then, in the evening, as the sun goes down, in a final gesture of homage, beacons and Lamp Lights of Peace will be lit to signify the light that emerged from the dreadful darkness of war.
Following a speech from Major Graeme Heron (Ret’d) TD, the Lord Mayor will light the flambeau beacons along Ceremonial Way in tribute to the brave men and women, from the UK, America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and from many European nations, who were part of a battle that is seen as a turning point in the war in Europe.
Lord Mayor, Councillor Rob Higgins, said “Eighty years ago tens of thousands of brave allied forces set sail for Normandy. They weren’t sure what to expect or whether they would ever return.
“As they landed on the beaches many will have feared the worst even as they hoped for the best. They fought with honour and bravery but they didn’t really see themselves as heroes. Those who came home spoke with humility about what they had achieved, often focussing on those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“This anniversary is an opportunity for us all to remember the courage, dedication and sacrifice of all those who took part in D-Day and the battles that followed. I would encourage come along and pay their respects to the valiant heroes who fought for the freedom that we so often take for granted.”
Major Heron, who is a military tour guide of the D-Day beaches, said “It is a great honour to play even a small part in paying tribute to the brave men and women who served their country eighty years ago. Over 4,000 allied troops lost their lives and their sacrifice must never be forgotten.”
The D-Day anniversary flag will be flown in the city including at the Civic Centre as a tribute to those who served. The commemoration event will begin at 9pm in the evening. The beacons will be lit 9.15pm, the same time as others across the UK.