Graignes 71st Anniversary Commemorations

Today we had the annual commemoration service to pay our respects to the paratroopers who died trying to defend our village, as well as the civilians who lost their lives helping them, and to pay homage to the veterans who survived those terrible experiences and whose numbers decrease year on year.

The service started with speeches paying homage to the fallen and the veterans and culminated in the laying of wreaths by the invited dignitaries, whilst bouquets of flowers were laid by the children from the local school.

My family now has a special reason to pay our respects, not only on our behalf, but on behalf of the family of Flt Sgt Stanley K Black.   We now have the great honour of being the adopted family of Elissa Liggins (Stanley's Great Niece) and it is an honour we take very seriously indeed.   This one's for you Liss!...

Paratroopers from the US Army and representatives of the US Navy

Members of the Royal Dutch Armed Force

Wreaths and Bouquets

Our Tribute to Stanley Black