D-Day: A beach of heroes and a call to remember the history

It won't be that many more years before there won't be anymore eyewitnesses or survivors to tell the story of the day on Omaha Beach that changed the world.

We are losing the heroes of World War II's Greatest Generation much too quickly. And when they are gone, we will have to experience the sacrifice and to hear about the heroism from historical films and Hollywood depictions.

That's why today is so important -- another chance to remember, to watch the ceremonies and to see the landscape of crosses -- all commemorations of what can happen when courage overcomes fear and bravery trumps overwhelming odds.

The story of World War II is partially what happens when the world misses the signs that evil is taking hold and partially what happens when a generation joins forces to help strangers halfway across the world.

The world back then was a different place. There was no connectivity -- and news about the happenings in Europe came slowly.

So those who put on the uniform did so, in part, because their nation asked them, too. That was enough.

It would be later that they would realize just what they did for a people and a continent and how they helped save the world.

This is a day to talk about heroes and honor.

But it is also a day for thanks.

The people of Normandy -- many of whom were heroes themselves -- have never forgotten what a band of brothers did for them decades ago.

And there are others who will never forget not only the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines, but the everyday citizens who risked their own lives to save others.

Neither should we.

Published in Editorials on June 6, 2014 10:44 AM