The service and
sacrifice of Australians and our Allies who took part in the
campaign to liberate France during World War II would always
be remembered, the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Bruce Billson,
said today. "Today marks the 62nd anniversary of the
D-Day landings in France. More than 2500 Australians took
part in the air, sea and land operations in the lead-up to
and during the massive Allied landing in occupied France on
6 June 1944," Mr Billson said. "Australians and
their Allies showed great courage in the battles to liberate
France from German occupation. Our nation's involvement in
this key operation of World War II showed our commitment to
the cause of freedom on all fronts."
"We remember also that many Allied servicemen and women
who fought in or supported this campaign came to call Australia
home after the war," the Minister said. Mr Billson said
the D-Day campaign marked the start of the liberation of Europe
and the beginning of the end of World War II. "On this
anniversary, the Australian Government joins all Australians
in remembering and expressing our appreciation for the valuable
contribution
of our D-Day veterans," he said.
"Australians have a great appreciation of the service
and sacrifice of our servicemen and women in all conflicts,
including present-day deployments."