Moved to tears

King and Queen emotional over heroes' tales of valour & sacrifice

- RUSSELL MYERS

THE King and Queen shed tears at the heartbreaking stories of D-Day heroes yesterday as Charles urged the nation never to forget their sacrifice.

They joined Prince William and politicians, to praise the "courage, resilience and solidarity" of veterans at a ceremony in Portsmouth to honour those who fought for our freedoms.

The King said Britain today is eternally indebted to those who laid the foundation for an Allied victory in the Second World War.

At the start of commemorations of the largest seaborne invasion in history - 80 years ago today Camilla, 76, welled up as one veteran recounted how he lost his best friend on the beaches of Normandy.

Royal Navy serviceman Eric Bateman, 98, recalled his experience on Utah beach as Charles, 75, also appeared emotional.

Mr Bateman, who served on HMS Erebus, described how you could "walk across the Channel" because there were so many ships.

Given a standing ovation as he was introduced by host and actress Dame Helen Mirren, Eric said: "I am lucky to be here 80 years later.

"So many men and women including my dear friend Fred.. unfortunately never made it. I'm proud to be here today to honour them and make sure they will always be remembered."