Two dozen British D-Day veterans were the star passengers of a flotilla which set sail from Portsmouth today, bound for the beaches of Normandy where 80 years ago this week they fought to liberate France.
In 1944, Portsmouth was the main departure point for the 5,000 ships which headed to Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword, the beaches made famous by the operation.
Surrounded by naval ships and civilian boats, the ferry was waved off by small crowds who lined the docks in Portsmouth, as tugboats sprayed water, a traditional tribute.
Midway through the journey to France, the ship was due to switch off its engines for a wreath-laying ceremony to remember those who did not make it to shore. About 4,400 Allied troops died on June 6.
June 6th 1944 was the largest amphibious invasion in the history of warfare. By the end of the day, the Allies had established a foothold along the coast and could begin their advance into France.
The BBC reported that amongst thos esetting ot today was 99-year-old able seaman John Dennett, who was part of the second wave of troops who landed in Sword Beach on 6 June 1944.He travelled from Wallasey in Merseyside on Sunday with his nephew.
“I am looking forward to it – it’s a chance of a lifetime… Eighty years ago is a long time… I am looking forward to seeing the memorial and honouring the lads,” he told BBC News.
“I like to visit all the cemeteries in Normandy and I’m lucky to be able to do so.
“It is wonderful to think the younger generation will be able to honour their grandparents – I think it will be emotional when I see it.
“We must always remember them.”
