Commemorating the 81st Anniversary of D-Day - 6 June 2025

Today marks 81 years since the D-Day landings — a monumental moment in history that shaped the course of the Second World War and laid the foundation for the liberation of Europe from tyranny.

On the morning of 6th June 1944, under the codename Operation Overlord, more than 156,000 Allied troops landed on the beaches of Normandy. Among them were thousands of brave British servicemen who stormed the sands of Sword, Gold, and Juno beaches, facing relentless enemy fire, treacherous terrain, and almost insurmountable odds. Their mission was nothing short of extraordinary: to begin the liberation of Nazi-occupied Europe.

The scale of D-Day was unprecedented — involving over 5,000 ships, 11,000 aircraft, and soldiers from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and other Allied nations. It was one of the largest amphibious military assaults ever attempted and a shining example of international cooperation, resolve, and sacrifice in the face of evil.

But behind the statistics are stories of unimaginable courage. Young men — many barely out of school — charged forward not knowing if they would ever return. Paratroopers dropped behind enemy lines under the cover of darkness. Naval personnel braved rough seas and fortified defences to deliver troops to the beaches. Medics treated the wounded under fire. Every man played a role in the epic struggle for freedom, and every act of bravery mattered.

At RSS, we believe it is our solemn duty to ensure that these acts of heroism are never forgotten. The freedoms we enjoy today were won at great cost, and we owe an eternal debt to the soldiers who laid down their lives, to those who returned forever changed, and to the families who bore the burden of war at home.

As we honour the memory of D-Day, we also reaffirm our commitment to the men and women of the British Armed Forces. Through the sale of our Union Jack lapel badges, we continue to raise funds for military charities that support today’s veterans — the modern-day heroes who carry forward the proud legacy of service.

Let us remember the past, not only with reverence but with responsibility — to stand up for the values our veterans fought to protect, and to support those who continue to wear the uniform with pride.

We will remember them.