Photo By Pfc. Cecilia Ochoa | World War II veterans stand for The Colors during the Eternal Heroes’ Ceremony for...... read more read more
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NORMANDY, France - In a poignant tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the 101st Airborne Division, the Eternal Heroes Ceremony hosted by Irishman David A. Ashe, “Irish Dave,” and Céline Schwab Lautour, honored the brave Soldiers who fought to liberate the village of Ravenoville, France. The ceremony brought together veterans, senior leaders, local residents, and dignitaries to commemorate the pivotal role these troops played in the early stages of the Normandy invasion.
Ravenoville, one of the first communes in Normandy to be liberated, owes its liberation to the steadfast defense by the 101st Airborne Division and 82nd Airborne Division, which enabled the seizure and control of the upper ends of the four causeways leading inland from Utah Beach.
“I learned there had been a battle over 30 hours for my village, between American paratroopers and the German garrison,” said Ashe. “By sheer coincidence, the field that I bought on the eastern fringe of the village to build my home just happened to be where a firefight began on D-Day.”
Ashe and Lautour established the Eternal Heroes Memorial on June 6, 2012. Since its inception, they have been commemorating those who helped liberate their town with a Ceremony of Remembrance in their front garden in Ravenoville, France. Ashe said in disbelief that he couldn’t believe the Secretary of the Army would attend his ceremony along with the Chief of Staff of the Army and the Sergeant Major of the Army.
“We're here to pay respect for our fallen heroes and for those who liberated not just this village, but the entire peoples of the world,” said Gen. Andrew P. Poppas, commanding general of the U.S. Army Forces Command. They did it with boldness, fearlessness; they did it with strength and courage because after all, you didn't volunteer to drop out of an aircraft behind enemy lines with no means of escape or retreat without having that heart of a warrior, and that's what these men had.”
The U.S. Army’s 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions, composed of elite paratroopers, descended into the night over the Cotentin Peninsula just after midnight on D-Day. They were at the forefront of the Allied assault on Axis-occupied Europe.
“They did what paratroopers did best,” said Poppas. “They dominated the enemy, exploited all weaknesses, and cleared the way for reinforcements. Even when up against incredible odds, they remained unflinching. That’s not just rewarding; when you look at the way they executed it, we can learn from that.”
This event, symbolizing reconciliation and shared responsibility for the future, underscores the importance of peace in Europe and highlights the enduring friendship that emerged from the horrors of war.
“Today we stand together as brothers and arms and as friends in Normandy to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Honoring you, dear veterans, and your comrades,” said Brig. Gen. Markus Reinhardt, Defense Attache Paris/France. “On June 6, 1944. The liberation of Europe from Nazi rule began with the landing of Allied troops in Normandy. This event marks a turning point in history, the significance of which we must recognize today more than ever. Our presence here symbolizes reconciliation, as well as the shared responsibility we bear for the future.”
The Eternal Heroes Ceremony for the 80th anniversary of D-Day was a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom. As we honor their legacy, we are reminded of the enduring importance of remembering and learning from our history. The presence of distinguished guests and heartfelt tributes underscored the deep respect and gratitude we hold for these heroes, ensuring their memories will continue to inspire future generations.
| Date Taken: | 06.08.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 06.17.2024 17:00 |
| Story ID: | 473419 |
| Location: | NORMANDY, FR |
| Web Views: | 74 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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