June 6, 1944, 65 years later....

[Gonzo]

The greatest battle in millitary history IMO.

Several different branches of the millitary, not all Americans either, being able to coordinate a mass effort such as this is awe inspiring. Many things went wrong on that fateful day but in the end, the planned results proved true.

Whenever I meet a man who fought in this battle, whether he was in the infantry, a troop boat driver or a cook I am star struck.

My Grandfather was a Glider Pilot and he flew into Normandy on that morning. I was never able to meet him unfortuantely...

IKE: 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 peoples 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 triumphs of
1940-41. 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.