Veterans

Veterans gathered in La Fière to watch parachute jumps from U.S. and UK military members based through Europe in recognition of the important battle, largely fought by paratroopers and glider men from the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division, to secure the bridge at La Fière. This battle, described as the bloodiest small unit struggle in U.S. military history, cost more than 250 American lives. Without control of the bridge and its vital causeway, American forces coming from Utah Beach would not have been able to force their way inland.

That evening, the Veterans attended one of their favorite parades in Sainte-Mère-Église, the first village to be liberated by American paratroopers. The annual military parade in front of more than 50,000 Normans included military units, marching bands, and cultural and civic groups who march down the same streets that were lined with American troops in 1944 – this time lined with generations of French family members excited to shake hands, offer their gratitude, and gather military cards from the WWII heroes. 

Return to Normandy 2024 - La Fière

WWII Veterans were welcomed to Utah Beach by the Mayor of Saint Marie du Mont. Andy Negra, who landed at Utah 80 years ago, thanked the crowds of French citizens for warmly welcoming him and his fellow Veterans back to Normandy. The friendship bonds forged between the French and the U.S. are deep as children dressed as soldiers clamored to meet their heroes. Following Andy’s speech, wreaths were laid in remembrance of the fallen.

Meanwhile, members of the Delta family had the honor of attending the wedding of 100-year-old WWII Veteran Harold Terens and his now-wife, 96-year-old Jeanne Swerlin. In addition to flying the couple to Normandy for the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Delta’s Virginie Durr helped coordinate the beautiful wedding.

The couple was married by Mayor Jean-Pierre Lhonneur in a chapel built in the 1600s, alongside their families. The couple was whisked away to Paris after an intimate reception for a state dinner with President Biden and Macron.

In the afternoon, the Veterans were cheered on by an estimated 35,000 as they participated in a parade through Carentan. Once again onlookers clamored to shake their hands, take a picture, and get an autograph.

Return to Normandy 2024 - Utah Beach and Wedding

The first full day in Normandy was largely centered around remembering those that made the ultimate sacrifice in WWII and recognizing the efforts of all U.S. liberators that paved the way to freedom for many.  

To start the day, the WWII Veterans gathered with heavy hearts for a private ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery to pay tribute to the comrades and friends they lost 80 years ago. Veterans also had the opportunity to roam the grounds of the cemetery to visit those that have been laid to rest – answering questions from visitors and telling stories of true heroism. 

After a surprise visit to the Overlord Museum for a brief tank demonstration, the Veterans were greeted with a standing ovation and a roar of cheers at the Freedom Prize Ceremony hosted by Normandy Region leaders in Caen – which invites young people aged 15 to 25 from France and around the world to come together and honor those committed to fighting for freedom.  

The Veterans wrapped the busy and emotional day with a welcome gala dinner hosted by Normandy President Hervé Morin. 

Return to Normandy 2024 - Paying Tribute

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