He stated, "To us is given the honor of striking a blow for freedom which will live in history, and in the better days that lie ahead, men will speak with pride of our actions.
" Today we gather to pay tribute to the nearly one hundred and sixty thousand British, Commonwealth, and Allied troops who, on June 5th, 1944, converged here and along these shores to embark on a mission that would resonate as the greatest amphibious operation in history, striking a significant blow for freedom.
The soldiers assembled in Portsmouth on that day witnessed an awe-inspiring sight - the largest military fleet the world had ever seen.
Yet, the uncertainty of victory or failure loomed over them, and their fates remained unknown.
Whether it was the aircrew flying above, sailors on warships, or troops in assault craft navigating through the turbulent waters towards the shore, each individual must have grappled with the possibility of survival and how they would respond in the face of mortal peril.
As we look back eight decades later, it is challenging to fathom the emotions of that momentous day - the pride of being part of a monumental undertaking, the anxiety of falling short, and the fear of never returning home.
The recollections of veterans who vividly remember the soldiers strewn on the beach, lost before combat even began, serve as poignant reminders of the sacrifices made.
The tales of bravery, resilience, and camaraderie shared today and throughout history stir our emotions, kindle inspiration, and underscore our debt to the dwindling wartime generation.
It is not merely our privilege to hear their accounts but our solemn duty to ensure that their service and sacrifice are never forgotten, as we uphold the legacy of replacing tyranny with freedom.
The actions of the Allies on that historic day secured a foothold in Normandy, liberated France, and ultimately freed Europe from the clutches of brutal totalitarianism.
As we reflect with humility, pride, and gratitude, let us also remember that soldiers from thirty nations, including the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and Allied countries, participated in the liberation effort.
While frontline troops faced peril, the burden of war was shared by many through their sacrifices on the Home Front.
The victory was a collective endeavor, fueled by the resilience and hard work of those on the home soil - laboring in factories, mines, fields, and clandestine operations.
Their dedication and perseverance played a vital role in supporting the military efforts.
Today, as we express gratitude for those who sacrificed for our enduring freedom, let us recommit to honoring their legacy by balancing rights with civic responsibilities.
We are forever indebted to those who served on that fateful day, ensuring that their sacrifices are never in vain.