Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of Canadian soldiers during the D-Day landing in a poignant speech delivered in the small Norman town of Corseulles-sur-Mer. The commemoration took place on the shores of Juno Beach, where over 14,000 Canadian troops landed on June 6, 1944.
In his address, Trudeau emphasized the importance of remembering the heroism displayed by the soldiers who fought for freedom. He highlighted the significant role played by Canadian infantry and armored troops in Operation Overlord, noting that despite Canada's relatively small population, its soldiers were entrusted with a crucial landing zone at Juno Beach.
Trudeau praised the valor of the Canadian troops, pointing out that they had advanced further inland than any of their allies on D-Day, marking a remarkable achievement that came at a high cost. He underscored the need to continue sharing the stories of these brave soldiers to ensure that their legacy lives on for future generations.
The Prime Minister also drew parallels between the challenges faced during World War II and the threats confronting Western democracies today. He warned of ongoing threats to democracy, including aggression aimed at redrawing borders, demagoguery, misinformation, disinformation, and foreign interference. Trudeau called on all individuals to stand up for democracy and uphold the values that the soldiers fought to defend.
Trudeau's speech resonated with the audience as he reiterated the importance of honoring the sacrifices made by the men and women in uniform who fought for collective freedom. He pledged that Canada and the world would continue to commemorate D-Day for decades to come, ensuring that the courage and heroism displayed on that historic day are never forgotten.
