June 6 marks the anniversary of D-Day, an oft forgotten occasion and a defining moment in World War II. As 1944 fades into memory and fewer veterans are available to retell the tale, it is our job as Americans to make sure that the story of that day is never forgotten.
“Operation Overlord” was the given code name for the Allied invasion of western Europe, at the time controlled by Germany. The Operation began on D-Day, with an immense all-out assault of over 160,000 troops, 7,000 vessels and 12,000 planes. The scope and size of the initial invasion of D-Day is remarkable even today, and although the Operation is thought by many to have been the beginning of the end, the losses suffered by the allies that day were great.
The beaches of Normandy saw over 10,000 allied troops fall on D-Day in the name of freedom and the liberation of France from Nazi Germany under the reign of Adolf Hitler. Cherished American soldiers numbering more than 6,000 were amongst the fallen, joining countless others who lost their lives in the duration of World War II.
Their bravery and courage in the face of such a tremendous battle is a lesson in history, patriotism and honor that must to be preserved for future generations. Just before the battle began, General Dwight D. Eisenhower related to the soldiers, “I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full victory!”. The duty is ours now, to not forget and to honor with remembrance those who have given their lives for our freedoms.
Remembering D-Day, 66 years ago
D-Day -- Normandy Landing -- Battle of Normandy
