PARIS (AP) — France is getting ready to show its gratitude toward World War II veterans who will return, many for the last time, to Normandy beaches this year for 80th anniversary commemorations of D-Day to mark the defeat of the Nazis.
And we have to tell them,” Philippe Étienne, chairman of the Liberation Mission, the specially created body that organizes the 80th anniversary commemorations, told The Associated Press.
“The civilians were part of this (World War II) conflict because they suffered and they supported fighters.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, who had been present for the 70th anniversary of D-Day, wasn't expected to be invited this year.
French authorities are notably considering launching an nationwide operation to collect family documents, objects and audiovisual material related to World War II that would help keep the memory alive.
Persons:
Emmanuel Macron, ” Philippe Étienne, Étienne, “, It’s, Michel Delion, Vladimir Putin, wasn't, Putin didn't, Putin, …, ”, Fabien Sudry
Organizations:
PARIS, —, Omaha Beach, Paris, Associated Press, Legion, Nazi, Soviet, Allied
Locations:
— France, Normandy, Britain, U.S, Canada, France, United States, Europe, Ukraine, Russian, Rome, Soviet Union, Provence, Paris, Strasbourg, Germany, Nazi Germany, Africa