Fifteen D-Day veterans crossed the Channel with Brittany Ferries yesterday, departing from Portsmouth and Poole bound for France to attend commemorative events marking the 80th anniversary of the historic Normandy Landings that changed the course of the Second World War.
The veterans journeyed to Ouistreham near Caen ahead of today’s June 6th commemorations, where they will honour the 4,415 brave souls who perished during the pivotal 1944 operation.
Brittany Ferries expressed pride in hosting the war heroes annually during what the company describes as “a poignant and powerful day.” Eleven of the fifteen veterans departed yesterday from Portsmouth and Poole, with the ferry operator treating the journey as their most significant service.
Five veterans travelled aboard Brittany Ferries’ Barfleur from Poole to Cherbourg, hosted by the Spirit of Normandy Trust. The group was escorted aboard in style before the morning departure.
An additional six veterans arrived in Portsmouth via London taxis provided by the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans. They sailed on the company’s newest vessel, Guillaume de Normandie, departing Portsmouth for Ouistreham near Caen, located at the eastern end of Sword Beach.
During the crossing, veterans enjoyed onboard entertainment including performances by a choir from the official Commonwealth War Graves Commission commemoration party, creating deeply moving moments for all passengers.
“It is our great honour to continue carrying these brave men and women across the Channel for D-Day commemorations,” stated Christophe Mathieu, Brittany Ferries’ CEO.
“Of all our services, those carrying D-Day veterans are our most important and most special. As we transport them, we bow our heads and acknowledge the weight they carry for fallen comrades.
“We never forget that the beautiful destinations we serve today were once scenes of ultimate sacrifice made by thousands to secure the freedom we must never take for granted.”
The ferry company maintains annual traditions including a wreath-laying ceremony conducted approximately one hour from shore. Upon arrival, dedicated teams ensure veterans and their carers disembark first.
