As our nation readies this summer to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II, it is worth remembering one key battle in particular that helped to make this victory possible: D-Day, which occurred on June 6, 1944.
Given the advances in technology and the current superiority of our country’s military, it is difficult for many of us to fully comprehend what occurred, and what was at risk, in that 24-hour period and the days that followed. For a dwindling number of heroes, however, including several locally, this time remains one they can never forget.
Overall, more than 160,000 Americans and other allies took part as they stormed 50 miles of France’s coastline. Imagine 5,000 ships and 13,000 aircraft between here and Bourbon County, and you can better understand just how large this armada was.
General Dwight D. Eisenhower said there was only one mission: “We will accept nothing less than full victory,” and that is exactly what they secured.
The cost, however, was steep. More than 9,000 Allied troops died or were wounded, but they gave our forces the foothold they needed to complete the job and win the war in Europe.
We proudly call many of those who served during World War II the Greatest Generation, and for good reason. Their contributions during that time, both here and overseas, were invaluable, and their leadership in the decades that followed is why the last century is widely known as the American Century.
As Saturday approaches, I ask you to join with me in remembering those who were there on the coast of France 71 years ago. Few days in our country’s history better defined who we are as a nation.
Rep. Mike Denham, a Democrat from Maysville, has represented House District 70 (Bracken, Fleming and Mason counties) since 2001.