Tuesday 6 June 2023, marks the 79th Anniversary of the D-Day landings. On that day in 1944, 359 Canadians were killed in action on the beaches of Normandy. Among these were nineteen sappers, many of who were the first Canadian soldiers to set foot on Juno Beach leading the effort to and troops on the obstacle-covered landing. D-Day was the beginning of the Battle of Normandy which lasted well into August and would claim nearly 5000 more young Canadian lives.
Next year, Canada and other allied nations will return to Normandy to mark the 80th anniversary of the landings, commemorating the service and sacrifice of the soldiers, sailors and airmen who carried out one of history’s greatest military achievements.
Unfortunately, with time and the passing of the remaining veterans of Normandy, memories and interests seem to have faded. The Canadian government does not appear to have scheduled any commemorative events this year, possibly saving their efforts for next year’s bigger commemoration in France. For this year, in the name of those who fought, died and suffered, it is left to us to remember. Please take a moment or two to look at our webpage Juno Beach Tributes: D-Day Fallen Sappers.