Several events set for D-Day 80th anniversary

Gail Parsons, Abilene Reflector-Chronicle, Kan.
Updated ·3 min read

The Eisenhower Foundation and the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum will honor and recognize the sacrifices of World War II veterans through a series of events June 1 and 4-6.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of Operation Overlord, which historians often refer to as the start of the end of World War II.

By the end of June 6, 1944, 156,000 Allied soldiers landed on the beaches of Normandy. 4,414 Allied troops, including 2,501 Americans were killed, however, and more than 5,000 wounded in the storming of the beach.

Joy Murphy, director of learning and engagement, said this day in history and the men who participated deserve commemoration.

“It's always important to commemorate the day, which was such an important day in American history,” Murphy said. “That's what this is about — honoring veterans and commemorating this day in history.”

This year’s main-day celebration will begin at 1 p.m., which is a few hours earlier than in the past, and will close with the Symphony at Sunset.

“We'll have activities going on throughout the day,” Murphy said. “We've invited some more people from the local community. Some of the local museums and Arts Council of Dickinson County will be there. The Veterans Administration will be there. It’s just a little bit bigger this year than it has been.”

Throughout the day the museum will be open and free to the public. French photographer Fabrice Bourge has curated a special exhibit to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. A collection of nearly 20 years of photographs captures D-Day ceremonies and events in Normandy, France, highlighting the respect and gratitude that Normans show veterans during the annual D-Day events.

Hands-on History Carts will have activities related to Eisenhower and World War II.

“It’s basically for the kids but adults can do them too,” Murphy said. “It’s a way for them to learn parts of history in a hands-on way.”

Fort Riley will have static displays set up and the Dickinson County Museum and Abilene’s American Legion Riders and Veterans of Foreign Wars will also participate.

Kansas State University personnel will bring a flight simulator that shows people what it is like to take off and fly a plane.

The Salina Symphony will be the primary entertainment at the sunset concert June 1, but they will share the stage with the Flint Hills Children’s Choir, the First Infantry Division Band, and the Everyday Lights from Salina. The three groups will be performing throughout the day until the the Salina Symphony takes the stage at 8:30 p.m. The schedule starts at 1 p.m. with mounted Color Guard demonstrations, hands-on activities and various vendors. Guests are advised to bring lawn chairs, blankets, sunscreen, and bug spray.

June 4 through June 6, the Eisenhower Library will partner with the Roosevelt, and Truman Presidential Libraries in hosting an emerging scholar’s symposium. This virtual symposium focuses on specialized topics related to the Allied effort during World War II.

“We want to give an opportunity for young scholars to be able to present because sometimes in academia, if you’re a new scholar it can be very hard to get your work out to the public to be heard,” Murphy said.

June 6 activities include a remembrance ceremony, a meet World War II veterans reception, World War II veteran panel, free admission to the Eisenhower Presidential Museum, military re-enactors, and hands-on IKEducation programs.