The 81st anniversary of D-Day brought together a group of 23 former servicemen who had lived through the historical events of 1944. Organized by the non-profit Best Defense Foundation, the trip is part of an ongoing effort to ensure that the sacrifices of WWII veterans live on in the collective memory of society. This year’s group of veterans represents a shrinking demographic, as fewer than 67,000 veterans remain alive in the United States.
Serving in both the European and Pacific theaters, the veterans’ experiences have shaped their lives and continue to impact the present as they recount their stories, especially for younger generations. In a heartfelt moment, Jack Stowe, a 98-year-old who served in the Navy, shared that the French people’s kindness and appreciation have been overwhelming. He also revealed that he had lied about his age to enlist after the attack on Pearl Harbor, underscoring the profound sense of duty and service that marked his time in the war.
Among the group, 102-year-old Jake Larson, who survived machine gunfire on Omaha beach on D-Day, emphasized the responsibility of the living to honor the fallen. The veterans expressed hope that their legacies would continue to be remembered for generations to come. Wally King, who lived through the war in the Pacific and flew a P-47 Thunderbolt fighter, noted that this might be the last time such trips would be possible, as the number of surviving veterans keeps declining.
With the Best Defense Foundation starting their Normandy trips in 2004, the group size has varied—last year saw 50 veterans, and this year, 23 participated. As these veterans age, their visits become increasingly symbolic, representing the legacy and the enduring memory of a global conflict that changed the course of history. The public’s warm reception and heartfelt appreciation further highlight the profound impact of these veterans’ sacrifices, which remain etched in the hearts of their nation and its people.