Two local military members from 22 Wing CFB North Bay are taking part in ceremonies in France marking the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy.

Lieutenant Marie-Pierre Dion will serve as a guard officer while Sergeant Andy Carr will be a flag bearer for the colour party.

They’re both representing the Royal Canadian Air Force at events June 4th to the 8th.

“During Winter Carnival, [there was] a trivia question was about the five D-Day landing beaches and I had a big question mark on my face. That’s when I started to learn more about D-Day, which grew the desire to be part of the D-Day anniversary ceremonies. I am honoured to be provided this opportunity to grow my knowledge, to try new things and reach out to others,” says Lieutenant Marie-Pierre Dion, Administration Officer, 21 Aerospace Control & Warning Squadron.

“I have always made a point to pause and reflect on the sixth of June. This year I have the honour to do this on the very beach that so many fought and fell. To be able to remember the loss and celebrate the victory at that very spot means a lot to me,” says Sergeant Andy Carr, 22 Wing Operations Support Squadron (OSS) Acting Warrant and Deputy Chief Evaluator for the Standards and Evaluation.

According to Veterans Affairs Canada, Canada Remembers – D-Day and the Battle of Normandy: approximately 359 Canadian soldiers as part of the British Army Group were killed on D-Day and 5,000 Canadians would pay the ultimate price during the Battle of Normandy.

 

Photo submitted: (L-R) Lieutenant Marie-Pierre Dion and Sergeant Andy Carr.
Photo credit: Master Corporal Alana Morin, Imagery Technician, 22 Wing

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