Events, Media & Communications

American Sends World War II Veterans Off in Honor of the 80th Anniversary of D-Day

Jun 5, 2024 1:15 PM ET
A person holding a sign that reads "Welcome WWII Veterans and Special Guests"
A person shaking hands with a war veteran
People waving American flags and holding up a sign that reads "Thank you for your great bravery and sacrifices in Service to our country. Because of YOU, We are safe and free. Have a wonder ful trip!"
People waving American flags and shaking hands with war veterans
A person pushing a war veteran in a wheelchair down a red carpet
A person talking on stage
Two people dancing
A choir on stage
A large group of people waving American flags
People waving for a large group photo
A person giving a speech
A large audience of people surrounding a stage
People waving American flags while Veterans come past

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, American flew nearly 70 World War II veterans to Normandy, France. The historic trip started at American’s headquarters in Dallas-Fort Worth with a kickoff dinner that included a 1940s-era big band and the Victory Belles from the National World War II Museum in New Orleans. Veterans were also given a special heroes’ arrival by American Airlines team members before heading to Dallas Fort Worth International airport, where the celebration continued.

Additional trip participants include a few Rosie the Riveters, an iconic representation in the United States of the women who worked in factories and shipyards during World War II, and six Medal of Honor recipients, our nation’s highest award for valor. Over 50 cadets and midshipmen from our nation’s military service academies also joined the group, accompanying the veterans and providing music as a joint academy choir.

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