(NEXSTAR) — As the 80th anniversary of D-Day nears, the enduring legacy of that pivotal World War II Allied invasion at Normandy continues to resonate worldwide. On the seas, the Navy warship USS Normandy continues that legacy as it fights for freedom worldwide.
The USS Normandy’s Executive Officer, Commander Adam Samson describes that responsibility. “You’re carrying forth with you, not only the history of the actual invasion, but all the giants that came before us to make this 30+ year [old] ship one of the greatest warships ever to grace the United States Navy.”
Remnants of a battle 80 years ago, from uniforms and weapons to flags and banners, fill the USS Normandy. Samson recounts the importance of the Battle of Normandy, saying, “Really [it] was a catalyst to bringing to conclusion the end of one of the darkest periods in the history of the world.”
The guided missile cruiser was commissioned in 1989 and is homeported in Norfolk, Virginia. While the ship recently returned from a lengthy deployment, the entire crew is crossing the Atlantic once again to be in Normandy for the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
The ship’s commanding officer, Captain Erroll Robinson, said he hopes to spend time with D-Day veterans while in Normandy. “For us to go there and to witness that moment is historic,” said Robinson. “I’m looking forward to talking to them, to experience through their eyes, their testament of what it was like, their journey.”
USS Normandy Command Master Chief Will Palmer hopes the impact of that moment is something that resonates with younger sailors. “To go see the beaches of Normandy on the 80th anniversary with soldiers who were there, alive on that day, and fought in that battle. It really drives home the point of why we do what we do,” said Palmer.
The 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion is Thursday, June 6, 2024.
