How will Southampton mark 80th anniversary of D-Day?

On Thursday, June 6, the UK will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings in 1944 – and Southampton will be joining the commemorations.

Southampton played a pivotal role in preparations for the D-Day landings, with hundreds of thousands of British and US troops based around the city and Southampton waters.

Parts of the Southampton Civic Centre were used as a base by the American military until the end of the war.

American troops passing through Southampton on D-Day (Image: NQ)The tribute will acknowledge Allied forces who initiated Operation Overlord - by storming the beaches of Normandy in an act that led to the liberation of Paris and the end of WWII.

The Lord Mayor of Southampton, Councillor Valerie Laurent, said: “As we observe the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, we pay tribute to the valiant heroes who fought for our freedom with unparalleled bravery and sacrifice.

“The pivotal role that Southampton played is a testament to our city’s resilience and unyielding spirit.

“The 80th Anniversary offers us a valuable opportunity to delve deeper into our city’s significant contribution to this historic occasion, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of our shared history.”

The events:

At 8am on 6 June, Southampton’s Town Crier, Alan Spencer, will start the occasion with a special proclamation.

A service will be held on the evening of, June 6, 2024, to recognise and honour the sacrifices made during the Second World War.

The service will take place at Holyrood Church in the city centre, which was destroyed by enemy bombing during the Blitz in November 1940.

The 17 Port & Maritime Regiment, based at Marchwood Military Port will attend the service.

Following the service, they will lead a parade through the city centre to commemorate the historic occasion with veterans welcome to attend.

The parade will make its way through the High Street, passing the Bargate, and will conclude in Guildhall Square.

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When the troops arrive in Guildhall Square, a special beacon will be lit as a further act of commemoration.

This will be in tandem with other beacons lit including in Utah, Omaha, Juno, and Sword, all in Normandy, France.

 Archie Parsons from Southampton Royal British Legion said: “Southampton played a crucial part in the Second World War and it’s incredibly important that we continue to remember those that fought and lost their lives.

“Commemorative events such as these bring the city together and I look forward to working with everyone involved for the 80th Anniversary.”