80th anniversary of D-Day observed abroad, at home
Virginia National Guard Soldiers paid tribute to the valor, idelity and sacrifice of the U.S. and Allied Forces who participated in the June 1944 invasion of Normandy and commemorated the 80th anniversary of D-Day at multiple events on and around June 6, 2024, in France, Virginia and Louisiana.
“We gather here today, at this solemn and revered National Guard Monument in Normandy, almost a stone’s throw away from Dog Green Beach, to honor the brave souls known as the Bedford Boys,” said Maj. Gen. Joseph A. DiNonno, Commanding General of the 29th Infantry Division. “It is with profound gratitude and deep respect that we commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a day that marked a turning point in history and showcased unparalleled bravery and sacrifice.
” The Bedford Boys have come to symbolize the courage and sacrifice of thousands of U.S. and Allied forces who stormed the beaches of Normandy June 6, 1944, and began the push to end Nazi tyranny in Europe. During the assault on Omaha Beach, 19 of the Soldiers assigned to Bedford’s Company A, 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division died.
Maj. Gen. Joseph A. Dinonno, Commanding General of the 29th Infantry Division, lays a wreath along with a French dignitary June 2, 2024, at the National Guard Monument situated above Omaha Beach in Vierville-sur-Mer, France.