Following the launch of our D-Day 75th anniversary Special Stamp set and the unveiling of our special-edition postbox, honouring those who planned and fought in the Normandy landings, Chief of the General Staff, General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith KCB CBE ADC, wrote a letter to David Gold, our director of public affairs and policy.
‘I am delighted to hear of the unveiling of a new postbox in St James’ Square, a fitting location,’ wrote Sir Mark Carleton-Smith.
‘As you mention in your letter, this year marks a momentous year for those who served on Operation Overlord. D-Day was a triumph of ingenuity, improvisation and leadership; and a brutal human drama, which is why the story of Normandy continues to inspire the generations.
‘I feel particularly honoured to have been involved in the D-Day commemorative events this year and have the opportunity to meet with so many of our veterans who displayed such remarkable feats of heroism, bravery, and selfless commitment 75 years ago.
‘These stamps are an excellent way to continue to mark the 75th anniversary and recognise this brave generation of men and women.’
In addition to the postbox and stamp set we also issued a special postmark, which was applied to all stamped mail from 5-9 June and read: ‘75th anniversary of the D-Day landings 6 June 1944 #dday75.’ Royal Mail is also sponsoring a children’s essay competition organised by the Spirit of Normandy Trust.
Watch our video below of World War Two veterans Leonard Hobbs (pictured) and Fred Lee at the National Army Museum talking about our new stamps, which commemorate 75 years since D-Day.