I'm living and working in Europe/France this spring/summer. I've been blessed to be able to stay in the beautiful French countryside and see the important memorials to those who gave their lives here. Even more blessed that my guide is one of the top WW2 guides anywhere.
It's been emotional and tough at times. When I've been faced with the enormity of the sacrifice that our soldiers and the people of Europe made during this awful moment in history I've been overwhelmed. I never fully understood the scope of what was lost until I came here. I'm thankful that I understand better now. This holiday means more to me than it ever has in my life.
But, from this experience I've witnessed the will to survive, to keep faith and hope in a better future and to rebuild all that was lost. The human spirit is amazing and I am encouraged in humankind by what I've seen.
As an American who speaks next to no French, even though I make an effort, I have been amazed at the warmth and loving acceptance I've received everywhere I've been in France.We've been told by George and Co. that the French hate us. Nothing could be further from the truth. And they remember what we did for them and vow to never forget. All Europeans make the pilgrimage to the memorials here to insure that it will never happen again.
This Memorial Day has made me even more proud to be an American but it's made me even prouder to be a member of a global community. We are all the same, when you get past the language and the slight cultural differences. It's been a rich and valuable experience.
I send my thanks and profound gratitude to all those who serve and have served our country. I'm heading home in August to upstate New York with a cerificate of citizenship and a medal for service for my 89 year old uncle. He served in Italy in WW2. When I arrived at the Utah Beach museum it was waiting for me. I can't tell you how much that thoughtful and kind gesture touched my heart. That's how they really feel about us Americans here.
I will be sure to say a prayer at the Holy Cross Veterans Memorial Service this Monday for your Uncle and our fallen soldiers in Normandy. I'll even light a candle.
Could you if possible PM me, who your WWII guide is? I'm planning a trip to Europe within the next year to Normandy and Aushwitz. Again, thank you for making my day. most sincerely.
I've attached a link that now allows one to access a family member's military service.
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