Battleship North Carolina to shine in tribute to D-Day heroes on 82nd anniversary

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Battleship North Carolina will be illuminated Saturday evening as the memorial marks the 82nd anniversary of D-Day, honoring the courage and sacrifice of the Allied troops who stormed the beaches of Normandy during World War II.

The special illumination, scheduled for June 6 beginning at sunset, commemorates the historic Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied France on June 6, 1944. Known as Operation Overlord, the mission involved more than 156,000 troops crossing the English Channel in what remains the largest amphibious invasion in military history.

Military historians widely regard D-Day as a turning point in World War II. Despite heavy enemy resistance and difficult conditions, Allied forces established a foothold in Normandy, opening a western front that helped lead to the liberation of Europe and the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany.

The Battleship North Carolina Memorial, a division of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, said the annual observance serves as both a tribute to those who fought on D-Day and a reminder of the sacrifices made throughout the war.

“The anniversary of D-Day gives us an opportunity to reflect on the immense courage required of those who crossed the English Channel and stormed the beaches of Normandy,” said Dr. Jay C. Martin, executive director of the Battleship North Carolina. “Their actions helped secure the freedoms we enjoy today. By illuminating the Battleship North Carolina, we honor their service and reaffirm our responsibility to preserve and share the stories of the World War II generation.”

The Battleship serves as a memorial to the more than 11,000 North Carolinians who lost their lives during World War II and the more than 10,000 sailors who served aboard USS North Carolina during the conflict.

The commemorative uplighting will be visible throughout the evening from downtown Wilmington and surrounding areas along the Cape Fear River waterfront.

Commissioned in 1941, USS North Carolina (BB-55) earned distinction as America’s most decorated World War II battleship. Today, the vessel is permanently moored on Eagles Island and operates as a memorial and museum dedicated to preserving the stories of military service, sacrifice and citizenship.

The Battleship North Carolina Memorial offers exhibits, educational programs and community events throughout the year, connecting visitors with the experiences of those who served during World War II.