Veterans relive history, share humanity on the eve of D-Day anniversary

Surrounded by artifacts of the very battles they once fought, the World War II veterans spent part of the day at the Overlord Museum in Normandy, walking through exhibits that bring the story of D-Day and the liberation of Europe to life. For the veterans, the visit was both reflective and deeply personal—seeing history preserved not just in displays, but in the emotion of people still grateful for the sacrifices made more than eight decades ago. 

Later, the group of centenarians went for an exciting ride through the Normandy countryside in restored World War II–era jeeps. Veteran Wally King, a P-51 pilot who specialized in low-flying attacks on ground targets during the war, opted for the unique experience of riding along in a Dodge Weapons Carrier—complete with a mounted machine gun and open top—giving him a chance to speed through the winding streets near Omaha Beach.  

To cap off the day, Wally, fellow veteran George Mullins and the family of the late “Papa Jake” Larson attended a sold-out screening of Why We Dream, a documentary that chronicles World War II veterans’ journeys back to France for the 80th anniversary of D-Day in 2024. As the film ended, the veterans received a standing ovation, followed by a heartfelt meet-and-greet, where movie-goers thanked the veterans for both their service and their stories.  

Near the end of the session a Normandy resident, now in his late 80s, shared a deeply personal memory from the war. Orphaned amid the bombing and destruction, he recounted how George Mullins took him in and helped reunite him with his extended family. It was a quiet act of selflessness during a horrific time—and a powerful reminder of the humanity U.S. soldiers brought with them to France. 

Stories like his help explain why the people of Normandy continue to honor and appreciate these veterans so profoundly. Beyond the battles, it was compassion, courage and kindness that left a lasting imprint—one still felt across Normandy and throughout Europe today. 

Why We Dream, which was directed by Meredith Danluck and produced by Delta’s Window Seat Studios with Vice Media’s Pulse Films, can be streamed on the CNN app.