Veterans of the Normandy Landings gathered yesterday at numerous commemoration ceremonies – such as those in Bayeux, Caen and Colleville-sur-Mer – meant to honour the efforts of Allied soldiers in what can be described as perhaps the largest and most important operation in the war.
The dwindling, yet determined ranks of those, who had experienced first-hand the outstanding clash of forces on the beaches below the chalk cliffs of northwest France, are a testament to the lasting existence of the very best qualities of soldiers: perseverance, tenacity, a strong sense of duty and justice.
Anyone, who looks at current day Europe will come to the conclusion that the sacrifices of the Second World War were not in vain.
Without the dedicated endeavours of those ready to lay down their lives for the sake of protecting the lives of others, the Second World War would not have ended as quickly as it did. Imagine the steel nerves and iron courage that were required of every soldier so as not balk in the face of danger and to willfully carry out their responsibilities to themselves, their families, their countries and mankind.
The extraordinary thing about those, who sacrificed themselves during the landings, is the notion of complete altruism: ideas such as vengeance and personal benefit were replaced by a grim, yet optimistic belief that one’s actions would lead to a better future not just for the Allies, but for every single man, woman and child in Europe and the world. Giving one’s life to protect the lives of others is an action that should be viewed with the utmost respect.
Anyone, who looks at current day Europe will come to the conclusion that the sacrifices of the Second World War were not in vain. The people of Europe are wealthier, healthier and – most importantly – happier than ever before.
Peace can only be maintained, as long as there are those willing to defend liberty to their last breath. Mankind can only prosper, when there are those, who are willing to serve everyone indiscriminately, not only their own narrow interests.
