June 6, 2024 will mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, when thousands of men arrived on the beaches of Normandy during WWII. It is the largest seaborne invasion in history.

“World War II was probably one of the most pivotal moments in American history,” Jason Janecek said. “And this was one of the most pivotal moments with that invasion of Europe, opening up that second front. That Atlantic wall was supposed to be impenetrable.”

The Chequamegon Veterans are planning a program on the anniversary. It will explore local connections to the pivotal day in history.

“My grandfather was a United States Army engineer, and he actually took part in the landings there at Omaha Beach. He was an amphibious assault engineer. So their job was to destroy the beach obstacles. They were actually some of the first men off the boat,” Walter Gurske said.

His grandmother was also a war bride in England.

“It brings it home to the community and shows that Ashland had a connection to the big world events,” Janecek said. “And I think it makes people more interested in history, and it helps us in remembering the sacrifices that that generation made, that they’re still part of us, part of our community.”

The veterans group also worked with the Bay Theater in Ashland to arrange a one-day showing of the movie “Saving Private Ryan.”