Connect with us

World

American Airlines kicks off D-Day 80th anniversary trip for World War II veterans to Normandy

Published

on

American Airlines kicks off D-Day 80th anniversary trip for World War II veterans to Normandy

American Airlines kicked off its D-Day 80th anniversary trip to Normandy, France, with 70 World War II veterans on Friday at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

The veterans enjoyed a kickoff dinner Thursday night at American Airlines headquarters in Forth Worth, Texas, before their AA flight to Paris, and took part in a parade to the airport on Friday afternoon.

The veterans were sent off with an address from actor and founder of the partnering group, Gary Sinise of the Gary Sinise Foundation, and other volunteers and supporters from across the U.S.

EXPERTS REVEAL TOP TIPS FOR HANDLING COLLEGE GRADUATION GIFT MONEY

“We’re honored to play a part in helping this group of heroic veterans return to Normandy,” American Airlines COO David Seymour said in a statement.

“This special journey is not only an expression of our gratitude for these heroes and the sacrifices they made for our freedom, but we hope to help shine a light on their extraordinary stories and preserve their legacies for generations to come,” he added.

Frank J. Perry Sr., an Army aerial gunner on a B-24 bomber during World War II, shared his gratitude towards American Airlines for the opportunity of this anniversary trip to France. (American Airlines)

Among the 70 veterans selected for the trip was Frank J. Perry Sr., who served in the Army as an aerial gunner in Europe in 1945.

Ticker Security Last Change Change %
AAL AMERICAN AIRLINES GROUP INC. 11.50 +0.06 +0.52%

Perry joined Piedmont Airlines post-war to continue his dreams of aviation and served there for nearly 40 years. American Airlines is formed today by many heritage airlines like Piedmont.

FAA WON’T APPROVE INCREASED 737 MAX PRODUCTION IN NEAR FUTURE

When the veterans land in France, they will spend two days visiting Paris before commemorative events begin in Normandy.

Their program in Normandy will include “visits to key historical sites, concerts and special ceremonies to honor the courage and sacrifice of all who served during World War II,” American Airlines said.

American Airlines D Day 80th anniversary

American Airlines honored 70 veterans of World War II ahead of the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the greatest seaborne invasion in history. (American Airlines)

On the anniversary of D-Day itself, June 6, there will be a ceremony held at the Normandy American Cemetery. It is the first American cemetery on European soil for service members of World War II.

The oldest veteran onboard the chartered flight is 107-year-old former U.S. Merchant Marine Reynolds Tomter.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

June 6 marks 80 years since American forces invaded the beaches of Normandy under operation code-named Neptune to liberate France. 

It remains the largest seaborne invasion in history.

Continue Reading