Beacons will be lit across the UK and beyond, symbolising the 'light of peace' that emerged from the darkness of war. This special Beacon Lighting for the Jewish community will show Remembrance and gratitude.
D-Day, June 6th, 1944, was a pivotal moment in World War II, leading to the liberation of Europe from Nazi occupation. Jewish men and women played crucial roles in this victory, contributing to efforts that secured peace and freedom for our future generations. AJEX recognises the profound impact of D-Day and is committed to honouring the legacy of Jewish soldiers and all those who fought for our freedom.
National Chair Dan Fox said: “For decades, the Jewish history of the Nazi era understandably focussed on the unbearable memories of the Shoah. More recently, the obvious corollary to the genocide has come to the fore: that Jews served in the allied forces in numbers far out of proportion to our global population at the time. At no time and in no place was that more starkly illustrated than D-Day. It is AJEX’s mission to ensure this is known and understood.
From the Jewish SOE agents and Resistance members who sabotaged Reich transport and supply lines in the run-up. To the refugees-turned-commandos of X-Troop, some of the first boots on the beaches. From Free French pilots to US Rangers. Whether dropping out of the sky, spilling from landing craft, or fighting in the air, Operation Overlord has many Jewish stories to tell. On 6th June we will raise a salute and a toast once more, to the men and women of the Allied Expeditionary Force. And to life!”
To sign up for the AJEX beacon lighting event, visit: https://www.ajex.org.uk/d-day
There will be a high-level security measures, including a significant CST presence so attendees are urged to please arrive with plenty of time for an 8.30PM start. There will be no entry after 8.15pm and pre registration is essential.
