USAFE-AFAFRICA to Commemorate 81st Anniversary of Operation Overlord in Normandy Published June 2, 2025 By USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs CHERBOURG-EN-COTENTIN, France -- U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa Airmen will join Allied forces, veterans and French communities to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the D-Day landings with a series of events across Normandy, France, June 3-8. American Airmen, along with U.S.-based aircraft and personnel, will participate in flyovers, ceremonial tributes, joint airborne operations and community engagements that honor those who took part in Operation Overlord—the largest air, land and sea invasion in history. These Airmen are a part of Joint Task Force 81, consisting of more than 600 U.S. Airmen, Soldiers, and Sailors from roughly 17 units historically linked to D-Day and scheduled to participate in over 90 commemorative events throughout the Normandy region. D-Day, which occurred on June 6, 1944, marked the beginning of the Allied liberation of Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II. More than 150,000 troops from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and other Allied nations landed on five beaches along a 50-mile stretch of the heavily fortified Normandy coastline. Despite fierce resistance, the Allies secured a vital foothold, setting the stage for the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany. “The heroism, honor and sacrifice of the Allied forces on D-Day will always resonate with the U.S. Armed Forces and our Allies and partners across Europe,” said Lt. Gen. Jason T. Hinds, deputy commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa. “So let us remember those who flew and fell. Let us honor those who survived and came home to build a better world. And let us ensure that their sacrifice was not in vain by meeting today’s challenges with the same resolve, the same clarity of purpose, and the same commitment to freedom.” U.S. Air Force participation in this year’s memorial events will include: Flyovers by C-130J Super Hercules and other aircraft over key historical sites, including Omaha Beach and Carentan. Representation at memorial ceremonies at the Normandy American Cemetery, Sainte-Mère-Église and other commemorative locations. Joint parachute operations and static displays with Allied nations. Engagements with local communities, World War II veterans, and descendants of the Greatest Generation. D-Day was a monumental, high-risk operation that relied on unprecedented coordination between Allied air, land and sea forces. Allied aircraft provided deep-strike missions and close air support that enabled the landings and blunted enemy resistance. The success of Operation Overlord created the foundation for the stability and security that Europe enjoys today. D-Day was a turning point in a brutal global conflict that came at the staggering cost of nearly 10,000 Allied casualties. The victory preserved liberty, democratic values and human dignity—and it stands as a lasting symbol of Allied strength and unity. As the U.S. Air Force commemorates this historic anniversary, it reaffirms its commitment to peace and security in the Euro-Atlantic region, honoring the legacy of those who served by remaining postured and ready to meet today’s challenges. Media interested in covering U.S. Air Force activities during the D-Day commemorations should contact USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs at usafepao.pao@us.af.mil.