It is lost on many people just how brave these people had to be to hit the beaches in Normandy.
They attacked a fortified position with no cover using only small arms fire. The 1st division suffered 90% casualties.
This was accomplished by an incredible force of will and steadfast bravery. Historically, the only other feat that even comes close to this is the stand of the Spartans at Thermopylae.
Like most people, I watched the movie Saving Private Ryan. I had to turn away during the landing scenes. I can't imagine being there. The courage and the strength of our military and our allies alone on that day cannot be forgotten. We must always be reminded (I saw this on NBC tonight), that freedom is not free.
I have the utmost respect for all Vets of any war, but this one especially because my father was there at the Battle of Bastogne. He was a para-trooper medic, so his job was to jump into those area and try to provide medical care. He never talked about the war except to say that General Patton saved his life.
My dad landed on Omaha Beach, D+5. He was an army medic.
We did talk about it a couple times. I believe it is one of the horrors of life you just do not want to pass along.
I remember his eyes while we were talking, he wasn’t here, he was on the beach, then he would stop talking, that was enough.
I do not believe most people can comprehend the size of the invasion. My dad explained it this way, “you take all the people living in Milwaukee and all of their furnishings, pots, pans, beds, everything, and in one day move everyone and everything out of Milwaukee and on to a beach!
My dad served too. He didn't speak much about it either. All my uncles served. We need to remember that we are currently at war. Our men and women are sacrificing at this moment to keep us safe. Thank you to the unselfish people who give of themselves to our country.
SER: For your dad, it must be kind of like "The first day of the rest of his life". I just cannot imagine landing on that beach to what they encountered? How lucky YOU are to have a family member able to tell you such stories, and their impact on the future, and the COST of war. I salute him and his comrades.
In those wars the boys (and girls) were fighting for flag and country. Now the newspapers say we are fighting for oil, while reading how much all the CEO's are getting. 'Heart' has left the format of wars. It also serves for an alternative to no jobs. I am so proud when I see a service man in uniform. I literally want to thank him...if nothing else than to be able to write blogs like this. Yes Freedom is NOT free.
It is lost on many people just how brave these people had to be to hit the beaches in Normandy.
ReplyDeleteThey attacked a fortified position with no cover using only small arms fire. The 1st division suffered 90% casualties.
This was accomplished by an incredible force of will and steadfast bravery. Historically, the only other feat that even comes close to this is the stand of the Spartans at Thermopylae.
I've been watching a program about D-Day on the History Channel. AA is right about their courage. Just incredible. Thanks for the reminder, SER.
ReplyDeleteI salute all veterans.
Like most people, I watched the movie Saving Private Ryan. I had to turn away during the landing scenes. I can't imagine being there.
ReplyDeleteThe courage and the strength of our military and our allies alone on that day cannot be forgotten. We must always be reminded (I saw this on NBC tonight), that freedom is not free.
I have the utmost respect for all Vets of any war, but this one especially because my father was there at the Battle of Bastogne. He was a para-trooper medic, so his job was to jump into those area and try to provide medical care. He never talked about the war except to say that General Patton saved his life.
ReplyDeleteWell said AA and, SER for the post. My Uncle was in Europe as was my cousin. Neither spoke much about what happened.
ReplyDeleteMy dad landed on Omaha Beach, D+5. He was an army medic.
ReplyDeleteWe did talk about it a couple times. I believe it is one of the horrors of life you just do not want to pass along.
I remember his eyes while we were talking, he wasn’t here, he was on the beach, then he would stop talking, that was enough.
I do not believe most people can comprehend the size of the invasion. My dad explained it this way, “you take all the people living in Milwaukee and all of their furnishings, pots, pans, beds, everything, and in one day move everyone and everything out of Milwaukee and on to a beach!
thanks to all the vets out there!!!
ReplyDeleteMy dad served too. He didn't speak much about it either. All my uncles served. We need to remember that we are currently at war. Our men and women are sacrificing at this moment to keep us safe. Thank you to the unselfish people who give of themselves to our country.
ReplyDeleteSER: For your dad, it must be kind of like "The first day of the rest of his life". I just cannot imagine landing on that beach to what they encountered? How lucky YOU are to have a family member able to tell you such stories, and their impact on the future, and the COST of war. I salute him and his comrades.
ReplyDeleteIn those wars the boys (and girls) were fighting for flag and country. Now the newspapers say we are fighting for oil, while reading how much all the CEO's are getting. 'Heart' has left the format of wars. It also serves for an alternative to no jobs. I am so proud when I see a service man in uniform. I literally want to thank him...if nothing else than to be able to write blogs like this. Yes Freedom is NOT free.
ReplyDelete