American Flags Fly in Normandy

American Flags Fly in Normandy by Bridgette Gabrielle

On this day 74 years ago, allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy, France during largest seaborne invasion in history. Code-named "Operation Neptune" the landing marked the beginning of the liberation of the German-occupied northwestern Europe from Nazi control.

Thousands of brave American and allied forced died on those sandy beaches for the freedom of not only the United States but the entire world. Now, over seven decades later, American flags still fly all over Normandy, France. During a time when the United States of America is villainized both home and abroad, the citizens of Normandy continue to stand strong in support of the Star Spangled Banner.

Unlike any other foreign region around the world, northwest France understands what it means to be an American soldier. With over 4,000 American heroes buried on their land, they understand the role America plays in securing peace and freedom around the world. Days before the anniversary of D-Day, Normandy is traditionally decked out in more American flags than one would see on 4th of July in America.

At a time when our own athletes do not respect our flag, we must never forget the sacrifices made almost a century ago to stop the Nazis from continuing their reign of terror. As Americans, we must always remain proud of the greatness of our country. We are the only nation throughout history that is willing to sacrifice the lives of it's brave men and women to protect the freedom of others.

Without patriots like you respecting our flag and spreading incredible stories of heroism like D-Day, our country's greatness will perish. So on this day of remembrance, I ask you to reflect on how you can take your support of local veterans and your patriotism to the next level.