D-Day Anniversary : What happened on this day of WW II?

June 6 marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the historic Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied Normandy, France, during World War II. Codenamed Operation Overlord, this pivotal event was unprecedented in its scale and strategic significance, leading to the eventual downfall of Nazi Germany. World War II, which resulted in the deaths of 75 million people, took place between September 1, 1939 and September 2, 1945.

Why is this year’s anniversary important?

This year’s anniversary holds particular poignancy, as it may be the last major commemoration involving living veterans, given their advanced ages, reports CNN. Approximately 150 American veterans, 15 Canadian veterans, and over 40 British WWII veterans are expected to attend the events in Normandy.

D-Day is often referred to as the “beginning of the end” of Hitler’s regime. The successful landings allowed the Allies to establish a foothold in Western Europe, leading to the liberation of France and eventual defeat of Nazi Germany.

Origins of D-Day

Originally slated for 5 June 1944, when favourable conditions of a full moon, low tides, and good weather were anticipated, D-Day faced a 24-hour delay due to storms. The event played a significant role as less than a year after D-Day, on May 7, 1945, the Axis group surrendered unconditionally. This marked the end of the world war on the European continent.