Probably the most impressive and most emotional part of this whole day was the trip to the American Cemetery and Memorial. Just above Omaha beach are the 9387 brilliant white-marble crosses and Stars of David in memory of the Americans who gave their lives to free Europe. This number is only one third of those who lost their lives here. The families were given the choice to leave their loved ones in Normandy or to bring them back home. Two thirds came back home. It is maticulously maintained by the U.S. government. There are also 307 crosses of unknowns--known only to God. As we walked into the Cemetery, as if on cue, four Navy F18 fighter jets flew in formation right over our heads.
When our dear friend Marcia learned we were going to Normandy, she told us her older brother was buried at the American Cemetery. He was only 19 years old when he was killed at the Battle of St. Lo and she has never seen his gravesite. Tom was able to look up his information, and we were able to find his grave with no problem. His name was Pvt. Marvin A. Wamhoff.
Since we were there on June 6, the 69th anniversary of the landing, every place was packed. It was so impressive to see so many military service men and women in uniforms, young and old, some very old, but all wanted to come and be a part of the day. There were many ceremonies, flags, flowers and remembrances. We were wandering around the Cemetery when "The Star Spangled Banner" began, played by chimes. Almost everyone stopped, placed their hand over their heart and faced the U.S. flag. That was followed by taps. If the first part didn't bring a tear to your eye, the second part surely did.
A quote by Sergeant John B. Ellery engraved in the wall as we entered was so meaningful.
You can manufacture weapons
And you can purchase ammunition,
But you can't buy valor
And you can't pull heroes off
An assembly line
No comments:
Post a Comment