Mike Wood MP has paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the D-Day generation after attending commemorative events in Normandy marking the anniversary of the Allied landings, which took place from 4th June 1944 - 6th June 1944.
Representing Kingswinford & South Staffordshire, Mr Wood was honoured to attend ceremonies at the British Normandy Memorial overlooking Gold Beach and at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in Bayeux.
During the visit, he had the opportunity to meet and speak with some of the few remaining Normandy veterans, many of whom are now around 100 years old. Commenting in a recent social media post, Mr Wood said listening to their firsthand accounts of the D-Day landings and the subsequent campaign left a profound impression.
Reflecting on the experience, Mike Wood MP said:
"Hearing their firsthand accounts is an experience I will never forget. Their courage and spirit as young men in the face of incredible danger, along with the severe mental and physical challenges they endured, is no less remarkable today than it was 82 years ago."
"When walking among the graves and looking out over the beaches, the scale of what was asked of that generation is difficult to truly comprehend."
"We owe them, and the thousands who did not make it home, not only our deepest gratitude, but our continued commitment to work together to build a better world."
The commemorations brought together veterans, public representatives, and visitors from across the Commonwealth to honour those who served and to ensure that their courage and sacrifice are never forgotten.