Saturday, June 6, 2009

65th Anniversary of D-day

Tonight as I was flipping the channels, I unintentionally made my way to C-Span, not a usual for me. When my children watch tv it is almost always on the Disney channel, and I am more of an hgtv kind of girl. Well as I saw what was on, I was immediately drawn in, it was a memorial for the 65th Anniversary of D-day. Something that most of my friends and family don't know about me is my fascination with history, it was by far my favorite subject in school. Someday when I go back to finish my degree I would love the opportunity to take many history classes. D-day holds a special place in my heart because both of my grandfathers are veterans and served in World War II. My dads father, Verdon, served in the Navy, as far as I know he was not near by when they stormed the beaches of Normandy, but non the less he left his home and his family as a 20 (something) year old man to serve his country. What a honor to know that my grandfather selflessly served the United States and the world in the effort to bring world peace and to stop the inhumanity that was taking place in Europe. My mom's father, Vernon served in the Army, he was there the day they stormed the beaches, he took place in that amazing sacrifice, and selflessly risked his life in the name of freedom. Once as a child I had to write a paper on D-day, so I called my grandfather (who has now passed away) to ask him questions about his experience there. My grandfather (who had a very tender heart, no doubt some of his emotions came from the events witnessed in World War II) wept into the phone as he described some of the things he had the unfortunate opportunity of experiencing. There were certain things that were to painful for him to even talk about. Ever since that experience with my grandfather I have a very special place in my heart for those that have served bravely in the armed forces. I can't even begin to understand the sacrifice! My grandfather was married when he served in World War II, in June of 1944 his oldest daughter was one year old, imagine what my grandmother endured while he was away. The not-knowing if you husband was going to live or die must have been excruciating for her. Having to raise and provide for a child as a young mother alone must have been such a trial. I am so grateful for the blessing of Freedom. I think often times it is easy to take our Freedoms here in the U.S.A. for granted. I salute all those that have served and defended our Country, you are truly hero's!!