D-Day 80: Remembering the Heroes in Essex

This year, on the 6^th of June 2024, the UK will commemorate the 80^th anniversary of the D-Day Normandy landings, one of the most notable invasions of World War Two that ultimately led to the liberation of Western Europe and the defeat of Nazi Germany. Known as the largest amphibious invasion in the history of warfare, in the weeks leading up to the invasion, soldiers, vehicles and other equipment were loaded onto naval ships and landing crafts from the Tilbury Docks, right here in Essex.

Outstandingly, a 103-year-old WWII veteran by the name of Don Sheppard, Essex’s oldest Normandy veteran who fought on the beaches as a Royal Engineer, is planning to attend a service at the Living Memorial in Rettendon, near Chelmsford, to mark the 80^th anniversary. Don helped to design this memorial, which was created back in 2008 by Fran and Peter Theobald. Read more about this amazing story here.

There will be many services and events taking place across Essex to commemorate D-Day 80 and remember those who so bravely fought for their country. Please see a list of some of these below:

Tendring District

Thursday 6^th June – Clacton War Memorial service, organised by Clacton Royal British Legion.

Saturday 11^th June – “Thanks for the Memories” show at the Princes Theatre.

Thursday 22^nd - Friday 23^rd August – Clacton Airshow to have an overarching D-Day theme featuring RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

Maldon District

Thursday 6^th June – Beacon lighting ceremony in Promenade Park with readings from historian and broadcaster Stephen Nunn and chairman of Maldon District Council Kevin Lagan.

Saturday 8^th June – 'D-Day Remembered' event at St. Andrew’s Church in Althorne. Explore 1940’s photographs, memorabilia, and newspapers. Visitors are welcome to bring their own items for display.

Chelmsford

Thursday 6^th June – Commemoration event at Channels Park with refreshments, parades by local cadet forces, readings and lighting of beacon.

Thursday 6^th June – Service at The Living Memorial in Rettendon.

Southend

Saturday 8^th June – Commemoration event with live entertainment, WW2 memorabilia, and reenactments at The Victoria Centre.

For more events in Essex, visit our What’s On page.