This year’s Goodwood Revival is set to be an unforgettable celebration, marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings with a special on-track parade that promises to captivate history enthusiasts and automotive aficionados alike. Held from Friday, September 6th, to Sunday, September 8th, the event will honor this pivotal moment in history by assembling over 100 military machines, many of which played crucial roles during the D-Day landings of World War II.
Goodwood, known for its dedication to preserving the spirit of historic motorsport, is proud to host this monumental event. The parade will not only showcase these remarkable machines on track but will also offer a display at the Lavant Infield, creating the largest gathering of military vehicles ever seen at Goodwood. The event holds special significance as it will be graced by the presence of D-Day veterans John Dennett (Royal Navy) and George Chandler (Coastal Forces), alongside Chelsea Pensioners on Sunday, September 8th, making it a poignant tribute to those who served.
The parade will feature an array of iconic military vehicles, including Jeeps, Tanks, Half-Tracks, DUKW’s (GMC type nomenclature), motorbikes, aircraft, and even boats. Leading the charge will be Field Marshal Montgomery’s Rolls-Royce Wraith Staff Car, a vehicle steeped in history. Restored to its original 1940s glory by Richard Hammond, this unique Rolls-Royce was the first civilian vehicle to disembark on the beaches of Normandy and served Montgomery throughout his European campaign. Its presence at the parade underscores its historical importance and makes it the perfect choice to lead this commemorative event.
Among the vehicles on display will be notable pieces of military history, such as the M36 Jackson, Valentine Amphibious Tank, Sherman Tank, M4 High-Speed Tractor, and M8 Greyhound. Adding to the maritime presence is the 63-foot MASB 27 anti-submarine boat, a vessel that played a critical role during D-Day by performing air-sea rescue duties and facilitating the transportation of troops and armored machinery from ship to shore.
The skies will also be alive with history as the parade includes a remarkable aerial contingent. The legendary Supermarine Spitfires, Auster Aircrafts, a Hawker Glider, and two Douglas C-47 Skytrains will grace the skies, echoing the valiant efforts of those who fought during the D-Day offensive. These aircraft, which were instrumental in dropping paratroopers into Normandy, will be on display at the Freddie March Spirit of Aviation exhibition throughout the weekend. The Spitfires will also join the Revival’s air display, scheduled for 8:00 AM each morning and in the early evening on Saturday, offering spectators a thrilling glimpse into aviation history.
The Goodwood Revival’s D-Day parade follows a series of commemorative events held earlier this year on June 5th and 6th, including the lighting of a beacon by The Duke of Richmond on St Roche’s Hill (The Trundle). This year’s Revival not only celebrates motorsport history but also pays homage to R.A.F Westhampnett’s role during D-Day as a forward airfield for the Royal Air Force. Goodwood House itself was converted into a hospital at the outbreak of the Second World War, further intertwining the estate’s history with the global conflict.
The Duke of Richmond expressed his pride in the event, stating, “I am incredibly proud that the Goodwood Revival is marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings with our largest parade to date. As R.A.F Westhampnett, the Motor Circuit served as a base for operations during this time, and we are honored to be welcoming veterans as part of the parade, recognizing their vital contribution during the Second World War. Featuring a range of impressive military machines, the parade will bring the Revival community together to remember and reflect on this important moment in history.”
Scheduled for Sunday, the D-Day parade will be a centerpiece of the weekend’s activities, complementing a full race schedule that will run exclusively on sustainable fuels. The official list of military machines participating in the parade and on display will be announced in the coming weeks, heightening anticipation for this historic event. While tickets for Friday and Saturday have already sold out, limited tickets for Sunday remain available at goodwood.com, offering one last chance to witness this extraordinary tribute to history.
The Goodwood Revival is not just an event; it is a journey back in time, a chance to remember and honor the sacrifices made during one of the most significant moments in world history. This year’s tribute to the 80th anniversary of D-Day promises to be a profound and moving experience for all who attend.
