Introduction: International history and the memory of the Second World War

A poignant exploration of the enduring legacy of the D-Day Landings, this study captures the final pilgrimage of aging veterans to Normandy in 2004, marking the 60th anniversary of the historic amphibious assault. It highlights the dual nature of remembrance—both a deeply personal act of homage and a social gathering where veterans reconnected with comrades and locals. The research delves into the narratives of sacrifice, trauma, and resilience, illustrating how these experiences shape collective memory. Through firsthand accounts, it underscores the emotional weight of revisiting the beaches and landing grounds, revealing both the horror of war and the enduring bonds forged in its aftermath.

(Ed.). (2010). Introduction: International history and the memory of the Second World War. Remembering the Road to World War Two, 9–44. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203846247-5