Marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings
On the 6 June, the UK will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings.
Also known as D-Day, the Allied Forces carried out a large-scale invasion of Nazi-occupied France.
This historic operation significantly impacted the course of the Second World War in favour of the Allies.
The allied forces’ staggering operation involved the coordinated efforts of more than 155,000 troops supported by 11,500 aircraft, and 6,900 naval vessels in an assault.
The Mayor of Kirklees, Councillor Nosheen Dad, said:
“The 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings serves as a reminder that we should never forget those who fought and died to defend the freedoms and peace that we and other countries have today.
“We owe an endless gratitude to the brave men, many who were just young soldiers, who displayed incredible courage, resilience, and camaraderie on 6 June, 1944.
“As time passes, our veterans become fewer so we must ensure that their legacy and their stories live on through remembrance, commemoration, and learning.
“Let us never forget their sacrifice and continue to honour their memory.”
Our Town Halls in Huddersfield, Dewsbury, Batley and Cleckheaton will be lit to mark the occasion.
Cllr Cathy Scott, Leader of the Council and lead councillor for the Armed Forces Covenant, said:
“The Normandy landings remain a significant moment in military history and the scale of the operation is still hard to believe.
“We are indebted to the thousands of brave men who stormed the beaches. They risked and gave their lives for the liberation of occupied Europe and we must not never forget what they did for us.
“It will be proud moment for our country and for our current Armed Forces who are involved in the commemorations up and down the country who are paying tributes to the heroes of D-Day.”
Beacon Lighting
In commemoration of the D-Day landings beacons are being lit to honour the bravery and the sacrifices to those who fought.
The Mayor of Kirklees will be attending the Friends of Cliff Recreation Ground’s Beacon lighting.
The event starts at 8.45pm and as all over the UK, the Jubilee Beacon will be lit at 9.15pm.
Music will be provided by Hade Edge Band and refreshments by the 1st Holme Valley Scouts. The tribute will be read by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire.
Emley Millenium Green has organised ‘Picnic on the Green’ and beacon lighting to mark the anniversary.
The event starts at 5pm and will see The Lantern procession ‘Lamp Light of Peace’ taking place at 7:15PM and again around 9PM before the Beacon Lighting Ceremony and International Tribute reading.