In a heartwarming ceremony near Normandy’s D-Day beaches, a 100-year-old World War II veteran, Harold Terens, said “I do” to his 96-year-old bride, Jeanne Swerlin. The pair exchanged vows in the town hall of Carentan, a significant location that witnessed intense battles during the Allied landings on D-Day in 1944. The couple’s love story serves as a beautiful reminder that age is just a number when it comes to matters of the heart.
Jeanne Swerlin highlighted the fact that love knows no age boundaries, stating that “It’s not just for young people, love, you know? We get butterflies. And we get a little action, also.” She affectionately referred to Harold as the “greatest kisser ever,” showcasing the timeless romance between the couple that transcends the limitations of age.
As well-wishers lined the streets outside the ceremony to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, Harold and Jeanne exchanged rings and professed their love amidst the historical significance of Carentan. The newlyweds raised Champagne flutes to toast to peace in the world and the end of conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, highlighting the enduring hope for a better future.
Harold Terens, a US Army Air Force veteran, enlisted in 1942 and played a crucial role during World War II. On D-Day, he repaired planes returning from France to send them back into battle, witnessing the sacrifices made by his fellow comrades. His journey continued as he transported captured Germans and freed American POWs from France to England, showcasing his unwavering dedication to his duty and country.
The newlywed couple attended a state dinner at the Elysee Palace, where they were honored by French President Emmanuel Macron and US President Joe Biden. The wedding, while not legally binding due to the couple being non-resident foreigners of Carentan, symbolized the enduring friendship between France and the United States, transcending borders and legalities in the name of love and unity.