Ashley high school student attends 80th Anniversary of D-Day in Normandy

NEW HANOVER COUNTY (WWAY) — Today marks the 80th Anniversary of D-Day when thousands of allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy. One New Hanover County high school student was in France today to witness the commemoration.

Ashley high school senior Luke Basso missed his graduation today to gather with several World War II Veterans and world leaders for the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. Basso has a Youtube channel where he interviews Veterans and he says Normandy has a healthy appreciation of history.

“Everything is D-Day themed. All the restaurants, all the buildings, they had something that was related to D-Day. Everything was D-Day or World War II related in this area and the french locals, they are so grateful to the American Veterans who were present. They are so grateful, they do everything they can to appreciate them,” said Basso.

While he wishes he could’ve seen some of his high school friends for the last time, Basso said being in France for the anniversary was a true honor he couldn’t pass up.