Seventy-four years ago this month, World War II ended in Europe.
The conflict continued with Japan for another three months. We persons who had fought in this conflict and the ones who supported the war effort — plus all others who were wishing for the end — were ecstatic. We were so happy, and prayed that never again would we have to suffer such a horrible event.
It is vital that we do not forget the tremendous sacrifice that was made by so many families.
Another anniversary that is coming soon is June 6, which was the date in 1944 that the invasion of Europe was underway. The thousands of soldiers, sailors, Marines, aviators and nurses, and other supporters who participated, were determined that this battle would be won, and it was — at a tremendous cost in lives and injuries.
There are not many of us left who were involved directly in the invasion, but those who survived never have forgotten this great endeavor.
My task was to cover the paratroopers and the gliders with the advance parties who landed at midnight June 5 prior to the full-scale attack. I was flying a fighter aircraft and never have I witnessed such gallantry as those men displayed.
We all owe those people our eternal gratitude for their sacrifices.
