Morning

Good night then: Sleep to gather strength for the morning. For the morning will come. Brightly it will shine on the brave and true, kindly upon all who suffer for the cause, glorious upon the tombs of heroes. Thus will shine the dawn. Viva la France!

-Winston Churchill message to occupied France on October 21, 1940

On June 6, 1944, some 4 years after its fall, morning finally came to France. Tomorrow is the 65th anniversary of that day. When we all wake up tomorrow, let's take a moment to remember the men who risked everything to save our civilization from fascism.

The view from the beaches of once occupied France. Something like 6,500 vessels took part in the invasion of these beaches.

British airborne pathfinders, among the very tip of the spear to be thrust against the enemy, prepare to drop into France.

American paratroopers of the 101st Airborne Division receive a few words from General Eisenhower prior to the invasion. The airborne forces attacking Normandy after midnight on June 6 were, by some estimates, expected to receive up to a 70% casualty rate.

Landing craft doors open and American troops take their first steps into uncertainty at Omaha Beach.

British troops disembark further east.

The butcher's bill at Omaha. Freedom comes dearly.

So, tomorrow, say a prayer for the brave souls who fought and died to preserve our freedom.

And if you are so inclined, watch the World At War episode entitled "Morning", which has no peer among WWII documentaries and inspired this post.