Call to teach D-Day sacrifice in schools

THE STORIES of heroism and sacrifice which defined D-Day must be passed on to the younger generation, leaders from across the political divide have pledged.

- David Williamson

Polling to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day found that just 48 per cent of 18 to 34-year-olds correctly identified it as the day when Allied forces landed in Normandy.

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan told the Sunday Express: "There are few more significant days in our nation's history than June 6, 1944.

"It's so important we make sure that the legacy of those brave men and women who fought to defend our freedom is honoured - and education is absolutely central to making sure their story lives on."

Bridget Phillipson, Labour's Shadow Education Secretary, said change is needed children grasp the importance of Britain's wartime past.

"As the proud granddaughter of a Second World War veteran, I was saddened at how many children are not aware of the sacrifices made in an operation that ultimately began the liberation of Europe," she said.

"This must change, so our children understand the history that ensured their freedom.

"We cannot grasp the future as a country if we fail to understand our past.