King Charles makes first overseas visit since cancer treatment at D-Day anniversary

King Charles and Queen Camilla join global leaders in Normandy to honor WWII heroes.

King Charles III made a significant appearance abroad, his first since starting cancer treatment, at the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Landings in Normandy, France. 

Accompanied by Queen Camilla, the royal couple participated in the commemoration at the British Normandy Memorial in Ver-sur-Mer, an event organized by the Ministry of Defence and the Royal British Legion.

The ceremony honored the massive military operation on June 6, 1944, involving approximately 156,000 men, which played a pivotal role in the liberation of Nazi-occupied northwest Europe. The King and Queen were joined by French President Emmanuel Macron and British veterans for this solemn occasion. 

The royal couple also opened the new Winston Churchill Education and Learning Centre, a nod to the historic leadership of the UK during World War II.

During his speech, King Charles shared heartfelt reflections, stating, "I shall never forget the haunting sights and sounds of thousands of be-medalled figures proudly marching past into a French sunset on these beaches." 

He praised the bravery and resilience of the generation that participated in D-Day, highlighting his grandfather George VI's words calling it "the supreme test."

The King also expressed his connection to the veterans and the Normandy community, saying, "Let us affirm that we will strive to live by their example; let us pray such sacrifice need never be made again; and let us commit to carrying forward their resounding message of courage and resilience in the pursuit of freedom, tempered by the duty of responsibilities to others, for the benefit of younger generations and those yet unborn." His gratitude towards the veterans was palpable as he continued, "Our gratitude is unfailing and our admiration eternal."

The ceremony concluded with Charles and Macron laying wreaths at the memorial, followed by the playing of national anthems and a flypast by the RAF Red Arrows. Singer Sir Tom Jones also contributed to the ceremony with a moving performance of "I Won’t Crumble With You If You Fall."

This visit marks a poignant moment in King Charles' return to public duties after his cancer diagnosis earlier this year.