Codenamed Operation Neptune, it was the largest seaborne invasion in history.

Today marks 75 years since the beaches of Normandy were stormed and overtaken by allied forces of more than 150,000 soldiers.

Norma Richardson, Public Relations for Branch 59 of the Royal Canadian Legion here in Moose Jaw, said it is important to us all, not just the soldiers themselves.

"As a member of the legion, I'm not a veteran myself, but I come from a military family. So it means a lot. This was one of the greatest battles that gave us our freedom."

The operation was the start of the liberation of German-occupied France from Nazi control, and laid the foundations of the end of World War 2.

The Royal Canadian Legion here in Moose Jaw has been working for the betterment of soldiers for years, and Richardson said their Service Operator has a unique understanding.
"Our service operator at the branch is retired military so he knows what a lot of them are going through. And it's his job to make sure that they get the help that they need if they require help."

The Legion advocates with the government and Department of Veterans Affairs on behalf of veterans, to help them get the services that they're entitled to.
"Or if they're having problems we can point them in the right direction", said Richardson.

By the end of the Normandy campaign, more than 5,000 troops had been killed out of roughly 18,000 Canadian casualties, all leading to the eventual victory of the war.
It's a vital day to remember and give thanks for the freedoms we all enjoy.