**Princess Anne Commemorates D-Day’s 80th Anniversary in Normandy with Veterans**

In a poignant tribute to the bravery and sacrifices made during World War II, Princess Anne has become the first member of the British royal family to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy.

This historic occasion saw her unveil a statue honoring the Canadian Royal Regina Rifleman, a fitting homage to the soldiers who fought valiantly on those fateful beaches.

The Princess Royal, who has held the title of Colonel and Chief of the Regiment since 1982, was warmly welcomed by veterans as she arrived for the unveiling ceremony.

Accompanied by her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Lawrence, Anne's presence underscored the royal family's commitment to honoring the legacy of those who fought for freedom.

As she stepped onto the parade ground, Princess Anne received a royal salute, a gesture that set the tone for the solemn yet celebratory event.

In her speech, delivered in both English and French, she reflected on the significance of the statue, stating, “How fitting it is on this 80th anniversary of the landing and the commencement of the Battle for Normandy that this statue has been unveiled in honor of the Regina Rifles who sacrificed so much for the cause of liberty and freedom.”

Her words resonated deeply with the audience, particularly the active duty members of the Regiment, whom she congratulated for their outstanding parade.

The Princess encouraged them to draw inspiration from the history they were celebrating, urging them to recommit to the values embodied by their predecessors.

This event marked just the beginning of a day filled with activities dedicated to remembering the heroes of D-Day.

As President of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Princess Anne planned to visit the Bay War Cemetery later that day, where she would lay a cross of sacrifice alongside Vice Admiral Lawrence, paying respect to those who lost their lives.

Additionally, the Princess was set to participate in a Royal British Legion service of commemoration at the cemetery, standing shoulder to shoulder with veterans of the Normandy invasion and French delegates.

This annual tradition serves as a powerful reminder of the shared history between nations and the importance of remembrance.

Later that evening, a service of remembrance was scheduled to take place at Bayeux Cathedral.

Following this, attendees would return to the cemetery for a vigil, led by an international group of pipers from France, Germany, and the UK, symbolizing unity among nations.

During the procession, three commemorative torches would be raised, representing France, Germany, and the Commonwealth, emphasizing the responsibility of future generations to remember the lessons of war.

Upon her arrival at the Bayeux Cemetery, Princess Anne planned to lay a poppy at the grave of an unknown soldier, delivering a heartfelt speech in memory of the events of D-Day.

Her actions highlighted the personal connection and respect she holds for those who served.

Meanwhile, King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Prince William were engaged in commemorative festivities in Portsmouth, England, ahead of their own trip to France.

Dressed in military uniforms, both Charles and William participated in a ceremony that honored the nearly 60,000 British, Commonwealth, and Allied soldiers who embarked on the monumental mission on June 5, 1944.

King Charles delivered a stirring address, reflecting on the themes of courage, resilience, and solidarity that emerged from those harrowing times.

He reminded the crowd of the profound impact of the stories they had heard, reinforcing the idea that the sacrifices made during the war should never be forgotten.

The atmosphere in Portsmouth was charged with emotion, as the assembled crowd bore witness to the largest military fleet in history, a sight that would remain etched in their memories.