It was the world's largest sea and air invasion
As veterans and world leaders gather in northern France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, people across Devon are preparing to remember those who sacrificed their lives.
On 6 June 1944, the allies fought back against Nazi Germany in the world's largest sea and air invasion.
In Exeter, the road bridge and swing bridge over the ship canal were used for training troops ahead of the landings. They were chosen becuase they mirrored the layout of two bridges in Normandy over the River Orne.
A special service will unveil an interperation board to show the history of the bridges and their role in the preparations for the landings.
At the maritime buoy on the King's Arms Isthumus, a parade of military cadets will be joined by the deputy lord mayor for a beacon lighting, which is due to start at 9.15pm.
Memorial services and beacon lighting events will also take place in Plymouth at the Royal Citadel.
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