Ozora Stearns: “I rise today in commemoration of the upcoming 50th anniversary of D-Day, the first day of the Allied Invasion of Europe…”

“I rise today in commemoration of the upcoming 50th anniversary of D-Day, the first day of the Allied Invasion of Europe at Normandy. The Allies, under the command of Dwight D. Eisenhower, landed on the beaches in France on June 6, 1944. Our troops suffered massive losses. Yet, despite the onslaught from the German guns, the Allied Forces held their beachheads and pushed the Germans back. Within a year, the war was over. Mr. Speaker, the 50th anniversary of D-Day is a day when we should remember all of those who fought and died at Normandy and, indeed, in all of World War II. Nearly 580,000 men and women from Florida served their country with honor and distinction in World War II. We must always remember to pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. We must never forget those who have died, and those who were injured. We must never fail to help those surviving veterans who may be in failing health. And we must ensure that we never again have to send so many young men to die. The United States must continue to maintain a strong defense. Peace through strength must never ever be forgotten.”