News
HRH attends the 65th commemoration of D-Day in Normandy, France
5th June 2009
The Prince of Wales today attended events in Normandy, France to mark the 65th anniversary of D-Day along with world leaders, veterans, servicemen and their families.
President Barack Obama, Prime Minister Gordon Brown and French President Nicolas Sarkozy also attended events to commemorate 65 years since the Allied troops invaded Normandy to repel Nazi Forces.
The Prince of Wales attended the 60th anniversary commemorations in 2004 as did The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh.
Today The Prince of Wales attended the Service of Remembrance at Bayeux Cathedral.
The Prince of Wales then took part in a Normandy Veterans’ Association Service of Remembrance, laid a wreath and met D-Day Veterans at Bayeux Commonwealth War Graves Committee Cemetery, Bayeux.
At the Cemetery, hundreds of Normandy veterans were applauded as they took part in a parade and service amongst the graves of fallen British soldiers.
The Prince met veterans and cadets who cheered and clapped him as he walked around the cemetery.
Many said they were thrilled The Prince was there.
Peter Lennard, a troop commander with 30th Corps Anti Tank Regiment on D-Day, said afterwards: "It was lovely to meet him.
Major General Tony Richardson, the President of the Normandy Veterans Association who served with the 147th Essex Yeomanry on D-Day, said today's service had been "absolutely tremendous".
"The Prince of Wales is terrific," he said. "He managed to speak to so many people, so many veterans and shook so many hands.
"It's wonderful to see so many veterans here. We are getting a little bit older but we remember everything that happened 65 years ago even if we have difficulty remembering what happened yesterday."
Later The Prince of Wales as a Life Member of the Royal British Legion, attended a reception and met D-Day Veterans, Royal British Legion staff and supporters at the Hotel Chateau de Belle Fontaine, Bayeux.
Afterwards, The Prince of Wales attended a commemoration at the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer.
In a speech to veterans, British Prime Minister Mr Brown said the relationship between Britain and France was "stronger than ever, and will be strengthened in years to come".
Prime Minister of France, Mr Fillon, told veterans: "France has forgotten nothing.
"Time cannot change the sacred pact that exists between our two nations.
"Together we know the price of freedom and peace.
"We have built a peaceful Europe and we the guardians of this treasure.
"France will never forget her debt to you."
Chief of the General Staff, General Sir Richard Dannatt said: "Your example is an inspiration for the Armed Forces of today.
"We are humbled by your courage and professionalism."