On DECORATION Day

 

Legacies of the BRAVE!

 

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JACK GREEN, Jon Green’s father, Big Bear City, CA

 

By Senator Michael Morrell - 

 

Each year on Memorial Day, our nation pauses to reflect on the legacies of those men and women who have given their lives in service to our country. We honor individuals in every conflict from our nation’s past, from Valley Forge to Fallujah. 

 

2019 holds special significance as this year marks the 75th anniversary since 160,000 Allied troops landed on the beaches of Normandy to begin the liberation of Europe from Nazi Germany.

 

D-Day (also known as Operation Overlord) saw the loss of more than 9,000 Allied soldiers’ lives in what became one of the most important events in world history.

 

In his invasion order, General Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Supreme Allied Commander, said the following to the servicemen: 

 

“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! … The tide has turned! The free men of the world are marching together to victory! I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle.

We will accept nothing less than full victory! Good luck! And let us all beseech the blessing of Almighty God upon this great and noble undertaking.”

    

Speaking to their determination and tenacity, Eisenhower recognized the unique character of those in our Armed Forces – words that continue to resonate today.

 

Memorial Day traces its start to the observance of Decoration Day in the years immediately following the Civil War. It was a time to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers.

 This Memorial Weekend, we carry forth in that same tradition, whether we attend a local ceremony with Veterans, visit military cemeteries, or spend time with families who lost their loved ones.  

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In rememborance of our GOLD STAR Families