June 6 marks the anniversary of D-Day, one of the most pivotal events of World War II. On this day in 1944, Allied forces launched Operation Overlord, the massive amphibious invasion of Nazi-occupied France.
D-Day involved over 156,000 troops from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other Allied nations landing on the beaches of Normandy.
The invasion was a critical turning point in the war. Following it, the Allies pushed back against German forces. Within months, Paris was liberated, and less than a year later, Nazi Germany surrendered.
More than 4,000 Allied troops died during D-Day, with over 2,000 Americans losing their lives at Omaha Beach alone.
Additionally, many World War II veterans faced a hidden enemy: asbestos exposure, which can lead to cancers like mesothelioma decades later.
World War II Veterans and the Risks of Mesothelioma
All branches of the U.S. military relied on asbestos-containing materials during World War II. This fiber-like material was highly durable and fireproof, making it ideal for use in military bases, vehicles, and ships.
In particular, the U.S. Navy used more asbestos than any other branch. All of its ships were required to use this substance due to government mandates.
Navy ships used during D-Day that contained asbestos included:
- USS Arkansas (BB-33)
- USS Baldwin (DD-624)
- USS Corry (DD-463)
- USS Glennon (DD-620)
- USS Meredith (DD-726)
- USS Nevada (BB-36)
- USS Quincy (CA-71)
- USS Texas (BB-35)
- USS Tuscaloosa (CA-37)
Working with or around asbestos-containing materials like boilers, gaskets, and insulation on Navy ships and other military assets could have released fibers. Breathing in or swallowing asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma 10-50 years later.
Horrifically, the risks were hidden from service members by manufacturers of asbestos-containing products throughout World War II and into the 1980s. These companies essentially poisoned thousands of service members in the name of profit.
Get a Free Veterans Packet if you or a loved one is a U.S. veteran facing mesothelioma. You may qualify for benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), treatments, and compensation.
How to Commemorate D-Day 2025
As we mark the 81st anniversary of D-Day, there are many meaningful ways to remember the bravery and sacrifices of those who served.
Ways to honor D-Day veterans this year include:
- Attending a memorial ceremony: Communities across the country will hold ceremonies, flag raisings, and moments of silence to remember those who served.
- Reading about the history: Books such as D-Day: June 6, 1944 by Stephen E. Ambrose offer in-depth analyses and stories from veterans.
- Sharing stories of veterans: If a loved one served at Normandy, take time to share their story with others to keep their memory alive.
- Visiting a World War II museum: Many local and national museums, including the National WWII Museum in New Orleans, feature powerful exhibits dedicated to D-Day.
- Watching a documentary: Films like The Longest Day or D-Day: Normandy 1944 provide historical context and firsthand accounts of the invasion.
These simple acts help keep the memories of those who served at D-Day alive for generations to come, ensuring that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
Remembering D-Day and Helping Veterans With Mesothelioma
D-Day was more than just a military operation — it was the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany and a defining moment in the fight for freedom. The heroism displayed on the beaches of Normandy changed the course of history.
As we reflect on the 81st anniversary of D-Day, let us remember not only the courage of those who stormed the beaches, but also veterans with mesothelioma and other health problems that developed as a result of their service.
At the Mesothelioma Veterans Center, we work to make life easier for U.S. veterans and families facing a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Our team may be able to assist you with:
- Accessing VA benefits for mesothelioma
- Finding top doctors and treatments
- Pursuing financial compensation for expenses
- Receiving the support you need
Get a Free Veterans Packet or call (877) 450-8973 to see how we can help you and your family.
