69 years ago, the 6th of June

[Vassili Zaitzev]

On June 6th, 1944, the Allied invasion of Europe began with Operation Overlord. Landing on the beachs of Normandy were the armies of the United States(Utah and Omaha beach), Great Britain(Gold and Sword), and Canada(Juno). Despite facing resistance(particulary Omaha), a foothold was secured by the end of the day. June 6th marked the beginning of the Allied offensive to liberate Europe from Nazi tryanny.
To those lost on that day.

Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen of the Allied Expeditionary Force!

You are about to embark upon the Great Crusade, toward which we have striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you. The hopes and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you. In company with our brave Allies and brothers-in-arms on other Fronts, you will bring about the destruction of the German war machine, the elimination of Nazi tyranny over the oppressed people's of Europe, and security for ourselves in a free world.

Your task will not be an easy one. Your enemy is well trained, well equipped, and battle hardened. He will fight savagely.

But this is the year 1944! Much has happened since the Nazi trimuphs of 1940-1941. The United Nations have inflicted upon the Germans great defeats, in open battle, man-to-man. Our air offensive has seriously reduced their strength in the air and their capacity to wage war on the ground. Our Home Fronts have given us an overwhelming superiority in weapons and munitions of war, and placed at our disposal great reserves of trained fighting men. The tide has turned! The free men of the world are marching together to Victory!

I have full confidence in your courage and devotion to duty and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full Victory!

Good luck! And let us beseech the blessing of Almighty God upon this great and noble undertaking.

-General Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force, June 6, 1944.

 

[Thorlifter]

Absolutely!

Thank you veterans, past and present, for the freedoms you have afforded me!

 

[ToughOmbre]

To ALL the Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen of the Allied Expeditionary Force!

And to one in particular from my family.......

A "Tough 'Ombre" from the 90th Infantry Division who came ashore on Utah Beach.

My Dad.

Steve

 

[Gnomey]

A day of days indeed.

 

[mikewint]

Yes indeed, I was 5mo old so don't remember much but to all soldiers living and dead my deapest heartfelt thanks for your sacrifices

 

[vikingBerserker]

 

[CORSNING]

 

[Capt. Vick]

Amen

 

[bob44]

Including one of my uncles.