A SERVICE of remembrance was held at Shell Corner in Halesowen this morning marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
Wreaths were laid and people gathered at the shell memorial, on the corner of Maple Road and Long Lane where Rev Mark Danks, of St Paul's, led a service of remembrance at11am.
Events were held across the Dudley borough today to commemorate the milestone anniversary of the Normandy landings on June 6, 1944.
Tens of thousands of Allied troops landed simultaneously on the beaches of Normandy, France, on June 6, 1944, in the biggest military naval, air and land operation ever attempted. More than 4,000 lost their lives.
Just a small number of veterans who took part in the deadly campaign for freedom are still alive today to remember the sacrifices made by their comrades involved in the momentous military operation which marked the start of the campaign by Allied Forces to liberate north-west Europe from Nazi occupation.
Councillor Stuart Henley was the driving force behind the Shell Corner’s memorial event which was attended by local councillors, General Election candidates and schoolchildren from Halesbury School and Hurst Green Primary School.
He said: "As I stood at the Shell, surrounded by the sea of faces, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude towards each and every one who joined us today in commemorating D-Day.
"The turnout was truly remarkable, exceeding expectations. And what a glorious day it was! The sun shone down upon us, casting a warm glow over the proceedings. But it was the words of our new vicar Mark of St Paul's that truly brought the house down.
"His poignant and heartfelt words of remembrance were a fitting tribute to the brave men and women who fought for our freedom on those fateful shores.
"Today's event was a truly special occasion, one that will be etched in my memory for years to come. It was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who came before us, and the importance of honouring their memory.
"I want to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one who joined us today."
He said attention would now be turned to organising November's Remembrance Day event which will take place on November 8 at the Shell, starting at 7pm.
Meanwhile, people also turned out in Stourbridge and Dudley to remember fallen war heroes, and the D-Day anniversary flag was raised at Dudley Council House. The council building will also be illuminated in red, white and blue this evening to celebrate Britain’s role in D-Day.
Dudley Zoo and Castle will also be lighting a beacon at 9.15pm this evening to coincide with the beacons being lit throughout the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.
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