Tributes Made To Pegasus Bridge Veterans

Thousands have gathered in front of Pegasus Bridge in Normandy as part of the D-Day celebrations.

Pegasus Bridge was liberated in the early hours of D-Day by a team of gliders led by Major John Howard.

On the eve of the 75th anniversary of that day, tributes have been made to mark the date including the daughter of Major Howard.

“It’s very moving and always very emotional,” she said.

"My daughter always says to me it’s like my dad is alive again for a couple of days with us."

Jeff Barkway was a pilot instructed to land at Pegasus Bridge as part of that historic mission and his daughter was also there to pay respects.

She said: “The emotions are like a rollercoaster. One minute, you are happy and the next minute, you feel tears.

“I wish he was still here with us. He wouldn’t have liked all the attention, but it’s just wonderful to be here to remember them.

“They deserve it. What they did was absolutely incredible.”

During the celebrations, 100 veterans of the Normandy Landings were honoured with special medals to commemorate the 75th anniversary.

One of those veterans was 94-year-old Peter English who was thankful to be there.

He said: “It’s memorable. I’m so lucky to be here. I’m so glad.”

Vigil At Pegasus Bridge

Serving soldiers from The Rifles and the Army Air Corps gathered at the iconic Pegasus Bridge to commemorate the actions of their predecessors, The Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry and Glider Pilot Regiment.

The troops held a service at the memorial of Major John Howard who led the assault on the bridges and had a champagne toast at the Cafe Gondree at the same time of day as they landed 75 years ago.

Military personnel also retraced their steps over the Pegasus Bridge.

On 6 June 1944, troops were flown in by the Glider Pilots landing close to the bridge and liberating the Café Gondree from the Germans who held the position. The café was the first building to be liberated during Operation Overlord.