In June 2024, the Normandy Landings, also known as “D-Day,” which were a component of the Allied invasion of Normandy during WWII, were commemorated for the eightieth time. There have been a plethora of commemoration ceremonies in the weeks following, culminating in a 6th June spectacular at the British Normandy commemoration in Ver-sur-Mer. Performing an impassioned version of “I Won’t Crumble With You If You Fall,” Welsh singing legend Sir Tom Jones joined in commemorations among many other prominent figures and politicians.
Although it was played as a memorial to Tom’s late wife Linda, the song ended up being ideal for the D-Day ceremony, adding a touching and reverent tone to the commemorations. Tom, whose heartfelt vocals infused the song with energy and emotion, sang of the “honor” he felt upon being asked to perform at the occasion. Amidst the beauty, he shared on social media, “it is a momentous occasion that reminds us of the limitless sacrifices of that campaign.”
It was just stunning. Additionally, the 23 D-Day veterans who were present were welcomed by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Earlier in the day, at precisely 7:26am, a military piper played on Gold Beach to mark the beginning of the commemorations, marking the moment when the invasions started. All of these things, plus Tom Jones’s moving vocal performance, made for a touching ceremony that did its job of paying tribute to the Normandy Landings veterans.
Tom has already brought tears to people’s eyes in a live environment with this particular song before the D-Day remembrance ceremonies. He sang “I Won’t Crumble When You Fall” on an impromptu basis in 2022 on an episode of The Voice UK in response to multiple enthusiastic crowd requests. With just a piano for accompaniment, Tom’s powerful voice echoed around the room as he sang, moving fellow judge and singer Anne-Marie to tears.
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