The further removed we are from
significant events in history, the more we tend to forget or lose interest in
their meaning. Today marks the seventieth anniversary of the allied invasion of
France, known as D-Day. With each passing year, the men and women who lived
through those difficult days of world conflict, are fewer and fewer among us.
Their passing, and our own modern distractions, seem to muffle these voices
whose stories should not be forgotten. I say this not to glorify war or justify
our continuing bent toward human violence and destruction, but in deference to
the commitment so many made to give of themselves for a cause they deemed
worthy. Newspapers,
television, Internet sites are full of stories of such sacrifice on this June 6,
2014. It is estimated that there were as many as twelve thousand allied
casualties during the D-Day invasion, perhaps four to nine thousand casualties
on the German side. The costs of war should never be forgotten or ignored.
Along those same beaches and
the surrounding hills, observances are being held today to commemorate what
happened on that day. (Our own Tom and Judi Kern are witnessing some of
these events as the Fairfax Harmonizers are there to perform.) It is good
to remember the courage and faithful service of those who risked themselves on
that terrible day, and good also to remember the terrible costs of
war.
History has a great deal to
teach us, if we are willing to listen. Take a moment to hear the voices of men
and women whose bravery and commitment have much to say on this D-Day. The
lessons of seven decades ago are still very relevant for today.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday.
Jim Abernathy
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