D-Day 80

Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landing

June 6, 1944, was a pivotal date during the Second World War. After five years of war with Germany, a powerful military force left the UK and headed towards France to overthrow Nazi Germany. It was the largest invasion by sea in history.

The Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy and battled through the German defences. More than 6,000 ships, 10,000 planes and 150,000 troops formed part of the operation on D-Day.

Thousands lost their lives on the day of the invasion but without all of those brave soldiers, sailors and airmen, we may not be living in the largely peaceful and democratic society that we have today.

That's why these commemorations are so important. We must remember those who gave up so much for the benefit of our society and we must thank those who played their part in this vital operation.

We are all hugely indebted to them and hopefully, by remembering what happened, it will provide valuable lessons to the current and future generations.

View our Programme of events to mark D-Day 80 (PDF, 1 MB) (opens new window)

Sea Bangor

Bangor Seafront
Saturday 1 June 12noon - 6pm
Sunday 2 June 1pm - 6pm
More information

Commemorative Service

McKee Clock Arena
Sunday 2 June, 11am - 1pm

Drumhead Service at McKee Clock Arena
Guns to be fired from the Long Hole by the Royal Artillery
Medal Ceremony for 591 (AA) Field Squadron, Royal Engineers on their return from Operation TOSCA Cyprus
The Band, Bugles, Pipes and Drums of The Royal Irish Regiment perform a Beating Retreat
Military Village in McKee Clock Arena (11am - 6pm)

Beacon Lighting

Thursday 6 June 2024, 9.15pm

As part of the national commemoration, beacons will be lit at the following locations across the Borough;
Castle Park, Bangor
Conway Square, Newtownards
Burr Point, Ballyhalbert