Today, 81 years ago, tyranny was defeated as the courage of free men broke open the gates of liberation.
In a matter of hours, the people of Sainte-Mère-Église regained control of their destiny.
Within three months, the Tricolor once again flew over the Eiffel Tower.
Within a year, Europe was once again at peace.
Changing the course of history is a rare achievement, yet that is precisely what the veterans of Normandy accomplished.
They fought for a future that many of them knew they might never live to see.
Through their bravery, we inherited a free world.
We are deeply humbled to be in your presence today. We offer our eternal gratitude for your sacrifice.
I would also like to thank the Comité du Débarquement for preserving our shared history. As time passes, your work becomes even more crucial.
81 years later, we return to Normandy and ask:
What principle drove 150,000 brave souls across that body of water?
What belief led the paratroopers of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions to soar through the skies above us?
What force inspired the ‘Ivy’ men to charge up these dunes at Utah Beach?
They fought to liberate people they had never met in a land they had never seen.
That is the power of unity, the strength of friendship, and the unwavering belief in democracy and freedom.
From the sacrifices made on these shores, we learn the true strength of alliances.
The strength of our soldiers standing together, as they continue to do today, from Manchester, from Marseilles, from Minnesota.
The strength of our nations united in NATO, deterring conflicts and adversaries in the present day.
The responsibility to protect the legacy of D-Day and preserve freedom now rests with us.
So, let us offer everlasting honour to our Normandy veterans, for whom the Longest Day never truly ended.
Let us draw strength from their example, carrying their cause forward in their names.
Thank you.
