an important anniversary

hi my friends

As I'm sure you know, today is the 70th anniversary of D-Day, an important day in history because it turned the tide of World War II.  Even though many lives were lost, it was the battle that allowed the Allied forces to diminish Germany and the Axis forces and eventually end the war.

After visiting the World War II museum here in New Orleans this spring, I realized just how intense that day was.  General Dwight D. Eisenhower was the one who made the call that June 6 would be the day for the invasion, and he called it at the dramatic eleventh hour.  (The museum chronicles the intense deliberation he underwent to decide when the invasion would occur.)

Over 9,000 lives were lost on D-Day.  But over 100,000 other Allied troops were able to continue their attack in Europe that wore down the Axis forces and led to Germany's surrender.

My grandfather, Martin B. Richard, was in "D-Day + 3," and I am thankful he was one of the many who was able to fight on my behalf.

Martin B. Richard, Second Armored Division

I am honored for the efforts and sacrifices these troops made on my behalf 70 years ago today, 44 years before I was born.  How different my life could have been without this major offensive move by the Allies.

Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.  John 15:13


All information taken from the official D-Day website by the United States Army.