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Audio Described: D-Day 80: Tribute to the Fallen

On the eve of D-Day, a tribute to the fallen from Bayeux War Cemetery and South Sea Common, Portsmouth. Petroc Trelawny presents coverage for the blind and partially sighted.

On the evening of 5 June 1944, thousands of allied servicemen were waiting courageously for the signal to launch. In the 24 hours that followed, the troops of D-Day achieved the unthinkable, pushing the boundaries of ingenuity, bravery and sacrifice. Eighty years later as night falls, a reflective and poignant event is held at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in Bayeux. The Princess Royal, accompanied by Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, alongside actors, musicians and currently serving military, help mark the memories of those who took part, to hear their voices and to honour those who never made it home. With readings, music and veteran testimony, the event leads towards a unique moment of remembrance. As darkness descends, on the evening of 5 June, a moment of light focuses the nation’s minds and hearts on the price that was paid for D-Day’s success as all 4,600 headstones are individually lit. The UK section of the broadcast which follows, mirrors this lighting effect with a D-Day themed drone show accompanied by a live musical performance creating the audio backdrop. Presented by Kirsty Young with accessible commentary for the blind and partially sighted provided by Petroc Trelawny.

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59 minutes

Last on

Wed 5 Jun 2024 21:00

Broadcast

  • Wed 5 Jun 2024 21:00

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