Have Your Say
Neil Huband weighs in on opposition to classic military vehicles attending the 80th Normandy commemorations
Normandy 80 was so special, particularly seeing veterans who, when still in their teens 80 years ago, fought their way up the beaches under withering fire.
They survived unimaginable horror, and a few who still survive today came back again one more time.
As the son of a veteran, to be back on the Gold Beach at Arromanches, to follow the actions of 47 Commando, retrace the D-Day heroism of Stan Hollis VC, and be able to stand in thought by ‘the Giants’ at Ver-sur-Mer, was quite simply a privilege.
We will never forget the sacrifice of those who ‘never left Normandy’ as we enjoy our fabulous hobby. But will it still be possible to pay homage on the beaches in 2029?
It’s doubtful – unless we act now!
The welcome we received from the crowds in June was wonderful – even the gendarmes were very friendly, sometimes stopping us just to take selfies sitting in our Jeeps. But not everyone wanted to see us on the beaches.
In France as in Britain, small groups of activists – passionate zealots with greater influence than their numbers might normally command – are using that influence emoti…
