D-Day reminds us of just how close war can be, says British Army chief
The head of the British Army has paid a powerful tribute to veterans of the D-Day invasion who, he said, hold his "admiration, my gratitude and my deep, deep respect".
Speaking to Forces News in Portsmouth at an event to mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, General Sir Patrick Sanders said: "This is not ancient history, this took place in living memory.
"There are people alive today who participated in D-Day and that reminds us of how close war can be, how dangerous it can be."
The outgoing Chief of the General Staff was moved by "the character, the resilience, the courage, the determination of the generation who fought for us, fought for our freedom 80 years ago", which he described as inspirational.
First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key said that the nation we live in today "was so shaped by those who 80 years ago were prepared to give up their own lives".
The head of the Royal Navy called the commemorations a "hugely important day for us" which marks the beginning of the end of the Second World War.
Admiral Sir Ben honoured the skill and integrity of those who undertook the Normandy Landings, reflecting "on those who went before us with such courage and commitment".
More than 500 veterans joined the King, the Queen, and the Prince of Wales, along with thousands of members, for the national event in Portsmouth to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
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