June 6, 2024

Four-score years ago, the youth of Allied Armies stormed Normandy's shore; Men in the December of their years returned today recalling the gore of war. They wept at comrades graves who freely gave their all on that crimson strand; Heros reaped by the Scythe of Death to ensure that freedom would yet stand. Old men wept as the dulcet notes of Taps was played, And rendered smart salutes as Old Glory was displayed! Many of the veterans leaned on canes to guide their stride; Others in wheel-chairs were helped by guides to ease their ride. Gnarled hands that once held the fearsome weapons of war, Beckon for peace that we shall know war nevermore! Upon the plain above Omaha Beach lie 9000 buddies they mourn, Who await Gabriel's clarion bugle call on that Triumphant Morn! The glistening sand that once was stained by a hero's blood, Is now cleansed by the ebb and flow of decades of tidal flood. The beach that once resounded with the cannon's roar, Now trembles with the booming surf rushing to the shore! The hardships these gallant men suffered, we shall never know; So much, so very much, to this Great Generation we owe! Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired