60 WWII vets who fought in D-Day landed in Paris, France, this weekend as part of a special anniversary celebration, and they were met with a heartfelt and moving hero’s welcome.
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Fox News posted footage of the vets as they streamed through the airport shortly after landing. Men as old as 107 greeted a large crowd that was gathered with American Flags and cheers, and they stood for a special performance of The Star-Spangled Banner.
According to the publication, American Airlines and The Gary Sinise Foundation sponsored the event for a total of 70 WWII vets. After meeting at the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, the heroes also enjoyed a special parade in their honor.
“We’re honored to play a part in helping this group of heroic veterans return to Normandy,” AA 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.”
While in France, the vets will take a few days to explore Paris before heading to Normandy where they will visit “key historical sites,” watch commemorative concerts, and be part of “special ceremonies to honor the courage and sacrifice of all who served during World War II.”
On the anniversary of D-Day (June 6), there will be a ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery, which is home to the almost 9400 U.S. servicemen who lost their lives as they fought along the beaches to liberate France from German forces.
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