The Queen's speech at commemorations to mark the 75th anniversary of D-Day
Published
The wartime generation - my generation - is resilient, and I am delighted to be with you in Portsmouth today.
Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
When I attended the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the D-Day Landings, some thought it might be the last such event. But the wartime generation - my generation - is resilient, and I am delighted to be with you in Portsmouth today.
75 years ago, hundreds of thousands of young soldiers, sailors and airmen left these shores in the cause of freedom. In a broadcast to the nation at that time, my Father, King George VI, said: “…what is demanded from us all is something more than courage and endurance; we need a revival of spirit, a new unconquerable resolve...” That is exactly what those brave men brought to the battle, as the fate of the world depended on their success.
Many of them would never return, and the heroism, courage and sacrifice of those who lost their lives will never be forgotten. It is with humility and pleasure, on behalf of the entire country – indeed the whole free world – that I say to you all, thank you.
Related content
A message from The King on the first anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's Passing
07 September 2023The Queen's Green Canopy
A message from The Queen to the Governor General and the people of Canada
I mourn with all Canadians at this tragic time.
A message from The Queen to the President of Pakistan
The United Kingdom stands in solidarity with Pakistan as you recover from these terrible events.
A message of congratulations from The Queen to the England Women's Football Team
You have all set an example that will be an inspiration for girls and women today, and for future generations.
The Queen's message for the 2022 Commonwealth Games
My warmest thanks go to all those who have worked so hard to ensure the success of this particularly special sporting event, and I wish each athlete and team every success
A message of condolence from The Queen following the death of former Prime Minister Abe of Japan
I wish to convey my deepest sympathy and condolences to his family and to the people of Japan at this difficult time.
Financial reports 2021-22
The Royal Household today published its annual financial statement, the Sovereign Grant Report, for the financial year 2021-22. The Sovereign Grant is the funding provided to...
A thank you message from Her Majesty The Queen following the Platinum Jubilee weekend
My heart has been with you all; and I remain committed to serving you to the best of my ability.
A Platinum Jubilee message from The Queen
I continue to be inspired by the goodwill shown to me, and hope that the coming days will provide an opportunity to reflect on all that has been achieved during the last...
The Earl and Countess of Wessex visit St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Antigua and Barbuda
A message from The Queen to President of South Africa following the floods in KwaZulu-Natal province
I am deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of life and destruction caused by the recent floods in KwaZulu-Natal province. My thoughts are with all those who have lost...
The Platinum Jubilee Image Countdown
The Queen's Commonwealth Day Message 2022
In these testing times, it is my hope that you can draw strength and inspiration from what we share, as we work together towards a healthy, sustainable and prosperous future...
A message of condolence from The Queen to the people of Brazil
A message from The Queen to the Team GB Men’s and Women’s Curling teams
The Queen's Accession Day message
I hope this Jubilee will bring together families and friends, neighbours and communities.