This Sunday marks the 77th anniversary of a pivotal moment in the Second World War.
D-Day saw thousands of allied troops land on the beaches of Normandy, France, in what would be the beginning of the end of the war.
The Wedgeport Legion Branch 155 has one surviving member of the Battle of Normandy, 101 year old Alcide LeBlanc.
Branch secretary Andre Boudreau says LeBlanc’s job was to work with the observation officer to determine when to fire at the enemy.
“His officer one day decided that he’d go on his own, and he left Alcide behind. It turned out ok for Alcide, because the officer never came back. That’s a little story on Alcide and his good fortune that day.”
Seven other members of Branch 155 that fought in World War II are still living.
Boudreau says it’s important to remember this day.
“And for the freedom that we have today, we have to thank those soldiers, sailors, air men and women, and we have to make sure that we remember them, so their sacrifices will not be forgotten.”
The legion was not able to hold an in-person ceremony this year due to the pandemic.
The legion were also set to remember the 76th anniversary of the Liberation of Holland, and VE Day.
A full interview with Andre Boudreau will air on the Weekender this Sunday morning.
