Queen's Christmas Speech To Highlight D-Day 75 Commemorations As Example Of Unity

The Queen is to use the D-Day 75 commemorations as an example for solidarity and togetherness in her Christmas Speech.

The annual message will see Her Majesty say that by remaining united, "we honour the freedom and democracy once won for us at so great a cost".

The Allied invasion on the beaches of Normandy on 6 June 1944 was a turning point in the Second World War and was crucial to the liberation of Europe from Nazi Germany.

Around 4,000 Allied troops were killed that day and 75 years on, The Queen will call on people to honour their sacrifice in her speech. 

"For the 75th anniversary of that decisive battle, in a true spirit of reconciliation, those who had formerly been sworn enemies came together in friendly commemorations either side of the Channel, putting past differences behind them," Her Majesty will say.

"By being willing to put past differences behind us and move forward together, we honour the freedom and democracy once won for us at so great a cost."

The Queen will also reference how "at times" this year may have felt "quite bumpy".

The year 2019 has arguably been renowned for political fractures in the UK, but the Queen is set to address how faith and reconciliation can bring people together.

"How small steps taken in faith and in hope can overcome long-held differences and deep-seated divisions to bring harmony and understanding," Her Majesty will say.

"The path, of course, is not always smooth, and may at times this year have felt quite bumpy, but small steps can make a world of difference."

The speech was filmed in the Green Drawing Room at Windsor Castle and will broadcast on Christmas Day.

Cover Image: The Queen's speech will be aired on Christmas Day (Picture: PA).