Governor Ivey commemorates 80th Anniversary of D-Day

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey (R) released a video on Wednesday to honor the 80th anniversary of D-Day, paying tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought on June 6, 1944.

Governor Ivey reflected upon the courage of the servicemembers and honors the memory of those who never returned. The governor shares a personal connection to this historic day, recounting her father, B.N. Ivey's landing at Normandy six days after the initial invasion.

"Today marks a solemn and significant day in our nation's history – the 80th anniversary of D-Day," said Gov. Ivey. "On this day in 1944, thousands of brave men joined forces on the beaches of Normandy, in a powerful display of courage and commitment that changed the course of World War II. Our servicemembers displayed the indomitable spirit of an entire generation determined to preserve freedom and democracy."

"Along those brave souls was my father, B.N. Ivey," said Gov. Ivey. "Six days after D-Day began, he landed at Normandy as part of the ongoing efforts to secure a foothold in Europe. Ever so often, my father shared stories of the camaraderie and sacrifices that defined his days there. He spoke of the resilience that he and his comrades shared; qualities that helped them overcome unimaginable challenges."

"Today, as we remember the valor of those who fought, we also honor the memory of those who never returned," said Ivey. "Their legacy is our liberty, and their sacrifice is forever woven into the fabric of our history. Thank you to all our veterans and active-duty service members. Your courage ensured our freedom. God bless Alabama and these United States of America!"

132,600 allied troops, including the Americans, British, Canadians, Free French, Poles, Belgians, Dutch, and Czechoslovakians stormed five beaches in Normandy on the coast of France in the largest amphibious invasion in world history. 23,400 more allied airborne forces landed further inland by parachutes and gliders. Landing this many troops all at one time on such a large area required tremendous coordination between air, ground, and naval forces. General Dwight D. Eisenhower was the overall commander of the invasion with British General (later Field Marshall) Bernard Montgomery serving as the Commander-n-chief on the ground on the day of the invasion – though cooperation and even communications between the different armies in the field was often difficult. Over 4,000 allied soldiers were listed as killed on D-Day alone with thousands more wounded or missing. The total casualties for the invasion totaled 37,000 allied dead. Planners' estimates actually ranged even higher.

Kay Ivey has served as Governor of Alabama since 2017.

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