NEW YORK (PIX11) — The eternal flame of the French nation arrived in New York on Thursday to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the World War II Normandy landings of 1944.
The visit of the eternal flame is a sign of gratitude from France. It is a way to say thank you to the United States for storming Normandy Beach, which laid the groundwork for the victory of Allied forces in World War II.
The bond between the two nations transcends borders and time, stemming from the days of the American Revolutionary War.
“Today, we all gather here to celebrate and honor this friendship as we welcome the eternal flame of liberty, a beacon of a brighter future,” said Laurent Bill, the ambassador of France to the United States.
The eternal flame’s arrival in New York commemorates the 80th anniversary of D-Day. On June 6, 1944, allied troops from the United States, U.K., and other countries landed at Normandy, France, which at the time was occupied by nazi Germany.
“Let us remember French, American, British, and many other soldiers that fought together in the name of freedom and democracy,” the ambassador added.
The flame has been burning since November 11th, 1923, at the tomb of the unknown soldier under the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. It arrived on the Queen Mary II after a seven-day North Atlantic crossing, escorted by young French citizens, most under 23 years old.
Edward Mermelstein, the commissioner for international affairs for the city of New York, attended the ceremony.
“The eternal flames are a sentimental symbol of remembrance and reverence of our fallen soldiers,” Mermelstein said.
The visit also aims to foster and strengthen diplomatic relationships.
“Sharing this flame with the United States as it travels from the United Kingdom sends a new message across the Atlantic,” said Laurent Bill.
The flame will now travel to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, where it will rest until June 6.
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