Quick Facts

• Of the more than 90,000 Canadians who served in the Battle of Normandy, over 5,000 would lay down their lives defending freedom, democracy and the rule of law.
• More than 450 Canadians parachuted inland before dawn on June 6. A few hours later, some 14,000 Canadian troops would begin to come ashore at Juno Beach.
• On D-Day, having successfully breached the Atlantic wall, Canadian soldiers pushed the farthest inland. Those vital gains came at great cost, however, as Canadians suffered the most casualties of any British Army Group during the course of the campaign in Normandy.
• Veterans Affairs Canada recently announced changes to its Commemorative Partnership Program, which includes the Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program and the Community Engagement Partnership Fund. From now through to 2020, the Commemorative Partnership Program will also support international initiatives and include for-profit businesses and organizations in an effort to mark the centennial of the First World War and the 75th anniversary of the Second World War.
• The heightened period of commemoration for both the First and Second World War will continue as the country approaches the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017.

To follow live coverage of events and be part of the “D-Day Live” experience offered by CBC, go to the 70th Anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy webpage.