D-Day - 80th Anniversary | Yeovil, 6th June 2024
Join Us for a Beacon Lighting Ceremony to Commemorate the 80th Anniversary of D-Day in Yeovil.
Love Yeovil invites our vibrant community to come together at St John’s Church for a momentous event marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day. This commemorative evening will honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who secured the peace and freedom we enjoy today. The nationwide beacon lighting will commence at 9:15 PM, uniting villages, towns, cities, and organisations across the United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, and UK Overseas Territories in a simultaneous act of remembrance. This poignant tribute serves as our nation’s opportunity to honour the 210,000 Allied casualties of Operation Overlord, including nearly 37,000 ground forces and 16,000 air forces who gave their lives in the invasion of Normandy and the fierce campaign that followed.
Event Schedule:
19:00pm - 19:45pm: Bell ringing to signal the commencement of our commemorative activities.
19:45pm: Abbey 104 starts compering, setting the stage for the evening’s proceedings.
20:00pm: D-Day Proclamation to formally acknowledge the significance of this historic day.
20:15 - 21:15pm: A stirring performance by the HMS Heron Band, featuring a selection of commemorative music.
21:15pm: Lighting of the Beacon, followed by the International Tribute and a final musical number by the HMS Heron Band.
Local businesses, The Acorn and Cow & Apple have a range of food and drink on offer, including fish, chips and mushy peas, available from 5pm until 7:30pm, with the bar remaining open until approximately 10pm. Booking is advisable.
About D-Day:
On 6th June 1944, Allied forces launched Operation Overlord, the largest amphibious military assault in history, to liberate Nazi-occupied France. Over 180,000 Allied paratroopers were dropped into the invasion area, and nearly 7,000 naval vessels, including battleships and assault craft, supported the landings on the five Normandy beaches - Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword.
About Love Yeovil:
Love Yeovil is a dedicated group, passionate about our hometown’s rich heritage and vibrant community. Our mission is to spread good news and foster community spirit by organising events that celebrate Yeovil’s diversity and history.
Contact:
Love Yeovil
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 07946 378 203
Website: www.loveyeovil.co.uk
Let’s unite in remembrance and ensure the legacy of those who sacrificed so much lives on.