[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 73 (Thursday, June 6, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Pages S5201-S5202]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 COMMEMORATING THE 58TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NORMANDY D-DAY INVASION ON 
                              JUNE 6, 1944

 Mr. THURMOND. Mr. President, I rise today to commemorate an 
event that took place 58 years ago today. Of course, I am speaking 
about the invasion of Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944. The magnitude of 
the event, its scope and complexity, even now, instills a sense of awe 
in all of us. It remains the largest air, land, and sea invasion ever 
undertaken. The invasion force of over 150,000 soldiers was supported 
by over 5,000 ships and 10,000 airplanes. These troops were from the 
United States, Britain, and Canada and included Free French and Polish 
forces under the overall command of General Dwight David Eisenhower.
  The invasion sites, from west to east, were designated as Utah, 
Omaha, Sword, Juno, and Gold. The British Second Army was responsible 
for Sword, Juno, and Gold, while the U.S. First Army was responsible 
for Utah and Omaha. The U.S. 1st and 29th Infantry Divisions landed at 
Omaha Beach, the U.S. 4th Infantry Division came ashore on Utah. The 
82nd and 101st Airborne Division were dropped behind the beaches. I 
might add that some of the Airborne troops arrived by glider, an 
operation in which I was a participant.
  Although the invasion was ultimately successful, it was a very hard

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fought battle with many challenges. However, the individual initiative 
and courage of common soldiers saved the day. Many were teenagers or 
just in their twenties; most were frightened and on foreign soil under 
fire for the first time. Actions of courage and bravery were 
everywhere.
  Now it seems so long ago, but I vividly remember this event. I 
remember these gallant men and their heroic actions. I remember those 
that paid the ultimate price for our freedom. During this military 
operation I landed at Normandy with the Glider Infantry of the 82nd 
Airborne Division, First U.S. Army. I am proud to have been a part of 
that endeavor and bear witness to the heroism and gallantry 
demonstrated that day.
  One of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life has 
been to serve my Nation as an Officer in the U.S. Army. Although it has 
been many years since I last wore an Army uniform, my love for the 
service and pride in its heritage remain as strong today as it was when 
I was commissioned a Second Lieutenant. As I think about the sacrifice 
being made today by a new generation, I continue to remember the great 
effort and sacrifice made by so many young lives at Normandy. They paid 
the ultimate price for the freedoms we continue to enjoy today.
  With each passing year, the number of Normandy Invasion veterans 
grows smaller. This is the final opportunity that I will have, as a 
Member of the Senate, to mark the anniversary of this occasion. I call 
upon my Senate colleagues and all Americans to never forget what 
happened on those French beaches 58 years ago. I encourage all 
Americans to remember the courageous men who fought and those who died 
to defend our liberties.

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