World War II veteran Harold Terens, aged 100, is set to tie the knot with his fiancee Jeanne Swerlin, aged 96 in the French town of Carentan-les-Marais. The couple will be honored on the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings that took place nearby. The ceremony will be a small gathering with loved ones and Mayor Jean-Pierre Lhonneur expressed his appreciation for their choice to get married in Carentan, a town of historical significance during World War II.
Terens was awarded the French Legion of Honour by President Emmanuel Macron in 2019 for his role in the liberation of France. He was married to his first wife, Thelma, for 70 years until her passing in 2018. After being introduced by a friend in 2021, he found a companion in Swerlin, who had also been widowed. They have been inseparable since then and Terens describes Swerlin as someone who lights up his life.
Following the wedding, there may be a parade of veterans in Carentan and American soldiers from a nearby base will also be present as part of the D-Day commemorations. There are plans for a liberation ball in the evening where attendees are encouraged to dress in 1940s attire. However, it is uncertain whether the newlyweds would have the energy to join the festivities later in the day due to potential fatigue.
Mayor Jean-Pierre Lhonneur expressed his appreciation for their choice to get married in Carentan and mentioned that they would receive a token of gratitude for their service during World War II. It’s unclear if Terens will participate or not but it’s sure that this celebration will be one for history books and an emotional moment for all involved.
In conclusion, Harold Terens and Jeanne Swerlin’s upcoming marriage promises to be an emotional celebration filled with honor and gratitude amidst historical significance during World War II.
