Europe commemorated Armistice Day with ceremonies honoring those who fought and died in World War I, including memorial unveilings in Belgium, tributes by French President Macron, and wreath-laying ceremonies in the UK, reflecting on the war's profound impact and the sacrifices made by soldiers and civilians.
On the 24th anniversary of 9/11, President Trump and the First Lady commemorated the victims at the Pentagon, honoring heroism and renewing America's vow to never forget the tragic events and sacrifices made that day.
Nagasaki's twin cathedral bells rang in unison for the first time in 80 years to commemorate the atomic bombing of the city in 1945, emphasizing themes of remembrance and peace, with global participation in the memorial event.
King Charles called for unity and mutual respect in a message marking the 20th anniversary of the 7/7 London bombings, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity and remembrance for the victims, with commemorative events held in the capital.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has announced the release of new postage stamps dedicated to Betty White, set for 2025. The stamp features a digital illustration by Dale Stephanos, based on a 2010 photograph by Kwaku Alston, and was designed by USPS art director Greg Breeding. This initiative is part of a broader 2025 stamp program that includes tributes to other notable figures and themes, such as Allen Toussaint for the Black Heritage series and a Year of the Snake stamp.
Relatives of the 298 victims of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17, shot down over Ukraine 10 years ago, commemorated the tragedy in solemn ceremonies in the Netherlands, Australia, and the crash site. An international investigation attributed the attack to a Russian missile system, though Moscow denies responsibility. Dutch and Australian officials pledged continued pursuit of justice, while families expressed a desire for acknowledgment of wrongdoing.
A decade after the MH17 crash, which killed 298 people including Quinn Schansman, his father Thomas Schansman continues to seek an apology from Russia, which denies responsibility despite international investigations and convictions. The tragedy is commemorated with a ceremony at a memorial near Schiphol Airport, as legal actions persist to hold Russia accountable.
At a ceremony in France marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, a D-Day veteran called Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky "the saviour of the people," and they both referred to each other as "hero." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau introduced them, and world leaders gathered in Normandy for the commemoration.
World leaders, veterans, and notable figures gathered in Normandy, France, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the pivotal World War II Allied landings. The events included ceremonies, speeches, and military displays, with attendees such as U.S. President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, Britain's King Charles III, and Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Separate commemorations were also held in England and Canada.
President Biden, alongside key U.S. allies, commemorated the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion in Normandy, France. The event honored the significant WWII operation that marked the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany. Biden met with WWII veterans, participated in memorial ceremonies, and planned discussions with international leaders, including French President Macron and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
World leaders, veterans, and dignitaries gathered in Normandy to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, a pivotal event in World War II. The ceremonies included moving tributes from veterans, speeches by leaders like King Charles and French President Emmanuel Macron, and a reenactment of the landings. With the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the event highlighted the importance of unity against tyranny. This may be the last major ceremony with surviving veterans, many of whom are now over 100 years old.
104-year-old WWII veteran Steven Melnikoff, who stormed Omaha Beach, returned to Normandy for the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Reflecting on his service, Melnikoff shared memories of his training, the intense combat, and the loss of his comrades. He expressed concerns about modern America's self-absorption and hoped the current generation could rise to challenges as his did. This anniversary may be one of the last for many veterans to attend.
Thousands, including World War II veterans and heads of state, gathered in Normandy to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day. The commemorations included parachute jumps, candle-lit vigils, and tributes from leaders like U.S. President Joe Biden and King Charles III. Veterans shared their memories, emphasizing the importance of remembering the sacrifices made for freedom. The event also highlighted the contributions of women in non-combat roles during the war and drew parallels to current conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine.
Louise Hamel's diary entry from June 6, 1944, captures the historic moment of the D-Day landings in Normandy, France. Her family later donated their farmland to create the Normandy American Cemetery, honoring the soldiers who sacrificed their lives. As the 80th anniversary of D-Day approaches, her granddaughter Stéphanie Le Bris, an interpretative guide at the cemetery, continues to honor the memory of the fallen heroes.
On the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the last surviving WWII veterans gathered at Utah Beach, France, to honor the fallen and remember the historic invasion that began the liberation of German-occupied France. Veterans like 104-year-old Steve Melnikoff and 106-year-old French veteran Jean Turco were among those who attended, emphasizing the heroism of those who lost their lives. With the number of WWII veterans rapidly dwindling, this anniversary marks one of the last significant gatherings of these heroes.