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American Battle Monuments Commission to commemorate D-Day 81 at Normandy American Cemetery

Published May 21, 2025

D-Day 81: June 6 ceremony at Normandy American Cemetery  

On June 6, 2025, the world will pause to honor the 81st anniversary of D-Day, one of the most pivotal moments in modern history. The American Battle Monuments Commission’s Normandy American Cemetery will hold a ceremony to commemorate the deeds of the U.S. armed forces and its allies at 11 a.m. CET with U.S. and French dignitaries as well as veterans’ associations. The ceremony is open to the public.  

Remembering the sacrifice: the legacy of D-Day 

Overlooking Omaha Beach, Normandy American Cemetery is the final resting place for approximately 10,000 U.S. service members. Most of them lost their lives during the D-Day landings and ensuing operations that led to the liberation of Paris. Every white marble cross, Star of David or name on the walls of the missing, marks a life given fighting against tyranny and stands as a testament to a generation that answered the call of history. The legacy of these brave men and women continues to shape freedom and democracy today.  

A tribute to World War II veterans  

With years passing, the number of living World War II veterans grows smaller, making each anniversary especially poignant. The 81st anniversary serves once again as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom and the June 6 ceremony reinforces the continued friendship between the U.S. and its allies.  

 “On June 6, we honor the courage of those who fought for liberty, and we stand united in the spirit of peace they fought for,” said ABMC Acting Secretary Robert Dalessandro. “To stand beside World War II veterans on those sacred ground is to witness history itself – their bravery, sacrifice and the enduring power of freedom.”  

The American Battle Monuments Commission is dedicated to honoring the service of U.S. military personnel by creating and maintaining memorial sites around the world, offering commemorative services, and educating future generations about the sacrifices made by those who served. ABMC operates 26 cemeteries and 31 memorials across 17 countries, preserving the memory of the fallen and educating the public on the importance of their service. 

Picture of Normandy American Cemetry showing its memorial and the statue in the middle of it. Credit: American Battle Monuments Commission/ Uth
Picture of Normandy American Cemetry showing its memorial and the statue in the middle of it. Credit: American Battle Monuments Commission/ Uth
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About ABMC

The American Battle Monuments Commission operates and maintains 26 cemeteries and 31 federal memorials, monuments and commemorative plaques in 17 countries throughout the world, including the United States. 

Since March 4, 1923, the ABMC’s sacred mission remains to honor the service, achievements, and sacrifice of more than 200,000 U.S. service members buried and memorialized at our sites. 

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