D-Day 80th Anniversary

6th June 2024 | Lieutenancy News

On Wednesday 5th June 2024, I was extremely privileged to be able to attend the 80th anniversary D-Day commemorations on Southsea Common.

The service paid tribute to the many men and women who served our country: fighting on the front line, breaking the enigma code, preparing weaponry in factories and serving undercover.

During the event, excerpts from the writings of soldiers on the front line were read aloud. These included letters encouraging worried family members not to fret, which highlighted the bravery of these soldiers in the face of such danger, as well as excerpts from the soldiers’ diaries. These were particularly poignant: I cannot imagine the terror felt by the many thousands of men who fought at Normandy. Particular attention was given to the young age of many who served – some as young as 15.

It was tremendous to hear from veterans themselves, both on screen and in person, as well as members of the royal family and the prime minister.

This poignant service was tied together with rousing music, and concluded with a fly-past of red arrows.

Flora Green, a past Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet