As we go about our day today let us stop and give pause and thanks for the bravery and determination of those who were involved in the D-Day activities of June 6, 1944. Sixty-Eight years ago today, allied forces began the Normandy invasion in an effort to deal a fatal blow to Hitler, Nazi Germany, and her allies. Deemed Operation Overlord, the amphibious invasion was the largest in world history and was executed by land, sea, and air by allies made up of Americans, British and Canadian forces.

On beaches named Sword, Juno, Gold, Utah, and Omaha and a place called Pointe du Hoc, roughly 160,000 ground, naval, and airborne forces fought and died on these now famous landmarks. While we were victorious in our struggle, at least 12,000 casualties were recorded throughout the day. 

With American troops engaged in Afghanistan and stationed around the world, may we offer a moment of silence for their safety and protection. May we also lift up those who never left the beaches of Normandy and their fellow veterans of World War II for all they did to preserve freedom and to liberate those forced to live under tyranny.