President Biden, along with key U.S. allies, is visiting Normandy to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion. The visit includes French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. This event marks the most significant victory of the western allies in World War II and the largest seaborne invasion in history. The president plans to meet with American veterans and their families to honor their sacrifice during this trip.
The D-Day operation on June 6, 1944, codenamed OVERLORD, sent five naval assault divisions to the beaches of Normandy, France. The invasion involved 7,000 ships and landing craft operated by over 195,000 naval personnel. More than 130,000 troops from the U.S., Great Britain, and their allies landed on the shores, contributing to the defeat of German Nazi forces. President Biden will give a speech from Normandy’s Point du Hoc cliffs highlighting the bravery of those who scaled the cliffs, democracy, and the dangers of isolationism.
The president’s itinerary includes participating in a parade procession to the Elysee Palace on Saturday and laying a wreath at the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery on Sunday, where World War I veterans are buried. Among the allies President Biden will meet with is Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as Ukraine continues to face challenges from Russia. There will also be discussions with French President Macron on various issues, including the Middle East, Ukraine, the Indo-Pacific, technology, and clean energy during the trip.
In 2018, then-President Donald Trump opted out of the trip to Normandy to commemorate the D-Day anniversary while in Paris, citing bad weather. This decision received criticism at the time. President Biden’s visit to Normandy aims to honor the sacrifices and bravery of the soldiers who fought during World War II and to strengthen ties with key allies. The commemoration of D-Day serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and cooperation in the face of global challenges.
