D-Day memorial preparing for 65th anniversary of invasion

BEDFORD, Va. — The National D-Day Memorial in Bedford is gearing up for the 65th anniversary of the landings at Normandy.

Officials say the June events could perhaps be the last chance to properly honor the veterans who served. The youngest of those veterans are in their 80s.

The memorial expects to draw from 6,000 to 8,000 veterans and guests to the anniversary.

Eight years ago about 22,000 people swarmed the ceremony and then-President Bush spoke of Bedford’s role in losing the most men in D-Day per capita.

For the first time since opening in 2001, the memorial is hosting a drive to sell 500 luminarias. The luminarias will illuminate the memorial’s plaza June 6 after dark to remember the fallen soldiers. Each luminaria costs $20 or six for $100.

--Associated Press