On Thursday 6 June, Broxbourne Council will join forces with communities across the United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and UK Overseas territories to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
The event celebrates the peace and freedom obtained through the bravery and sacrifice of those involved in D-Day.
The D-Day landings of 6 June 1944 were the largest seaborne invasion in history. In the early hours of the morning, 24,000 paratroopers landed behind German lines to provide tactical support. Massive naval and aerial bombardments attempted to suppress the German defences and weaponry. Then a ground force of more than 130,000 troops came ashore on five beaches across a 50 mile stretch of Normandy coast. Along with the associated airborne operations, it marked the beginning of the liberation of France and western Europe.
As part of commemorations of the historic event, at 9.15pm on Thursday 6 June, the Council will be lighting three beacons throughout the Borough to remember those who were killed and injured. Beacons will be lit at the Queen Eleanor Square in Waltham Cross Town Centre, Wormley Community Centre and by the War Memorial in Hoddesdon Town Centre.
In addition to the reading of the International Tribute by a local dignitary at each location, Enfield Brass Band will be playing at Waltham Cross from 8.15pm onwards, the Hertfordshire Showband at Wormley Community Centre from 8.15pm onwards and a variety of appropriate music played in Hoddesdon Town Centre. The Royal British Legion and the various cadet forces in the Borough have been invited to participate in the proceedings.
The Council would be particularly honoured for Veterans to join the event at any of the locations. Veterans planning to attend the event should inform the Council by emailing Community@broxbourne.gov.uk.