17 NOVEMBER 2023 WorldWide Drilling Resource® World War II Veterans Return to Normandy Adapted from Information by Michelin North America, Inc. Michelin North America, Inc., in partnership with the Best Defense Foundation and Delta Air Lines, helped 44 members of the Greatest Generation to return to the site of a defining moment in world history, the Allied invasion of Normandy, France. The Return to Normandy trip allowed World War II Veterans from all branches of the military to travel back to the site of the largest seaborne invasion in history, beginning the liberation of France and ultimately leading to the end of the war in Europe. “June 6, 1944, is a day that will always be remembered, not only for the people of France, but the entire world as it signaled the beginning of the end of World War II in Europe,” said Alexis Garcin, president and CEO of Michelin North America, Inc. “Michelin is humbled to participate once again in this opportunity to say, ‘thank you’ to the Veterans who made it possible to celebrate freedom across not only Europe but the world.” Landing in Deauville, France, on June 1, these Veterans’ return to the Normandy Region was marked with major celebrations in every city they visited. From Carentan to Caen and Sainte-Mere-Eglise to Bayeux, townspeople filled the streets to welcome their liberators at every stop. Children waved American and French flags, and adults cried while meeting their heroes, thanking them for not only their freedom, but freedom across Europe. “The reception of the people of Normandy is something that I am amazed by every year,” said Jake Larson, U.S. Army D-Day Veteran. “I was excited to return with my fellow Veterans to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. It is up to us to remember.” Michelin employees accompanied the trip, providing support to Veterans as caregivers and various support roles. “I could not be prouder of the Michelin team for the support and professionalism they exhibited along every step of this profound journey,” said David Chapman, vice president of public affairs for Michelin North America, Inc. “Whether acting as volunteer care-givers to our Veterans or supporting the overall success of the trip, I cannot say enough about the dedication of the Michelin family for making this return to Normandy a tremendous success for our honored Veterans.” This is the second year Michelin and Delta Air Lines have supported the Best Defense Foundation in this endeavor. Michelin and Delta’s corporate partnership will continue in 2024, as they work together to return World War II Veterans back to Normandy for the upcoming 80th anniversary.
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