Thousands of Allied troops waded ashore at beaches all along the Normandy coast on June 6, 1944. (CBC)

Canadians were asked on Sunday to remember the sacrifice made more than 60 years ago by Canadian soldiers on the beaches of Normandy, France.

June 6 marks the 66th anniversary of D-Day — when Allied soldiers stormed the beaches of France in what would become the beginning of the end of the Second World War.

In Ottawa, Prime Minister Stephen Harper praised the contribution made by the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces all those years ago.

"The Canadian Forces earned their place in the history books that day when they forged ahead by land, air and sea farther than any other Allied troops," he said in a statement.

"Today, I join all Canadians in expressing our sincere thanks to our veterans. Their contribution and service to Canada has made our country what it is today. Neither time nor distance will lessen our remembrance."

There were ceremonies in a number of towns in France to commemorate the anniversary.

In Colleville-Sur-Mer there was a ceremony of remembrance at the Normandy American Cemetery.

An ecumenical service was held in the cathedral in the town of Bayeux, where a wreath-laying service also took place at the British military cemetery.

About 215,000 Allied soldiers, and roughly as many Germans, were killed or wounded during D-Day and the ensuing months it took to secure the capture of Normandy.

"People around the world honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought on D-Day," said Harper. "We also reflect on the ultimate sacrifice that 5,000 Canadians made during the Battle of Normandy to combat tyranny and secure our freedom."