This Saturday, June 6th commemorates the 65th anniversary of D-Day, the Allied Forces' invasion at the beaches of Normandy, France. Two-hundred and forty-four rangers (most very young boys) scaled Pointe du Huc to take the cliffs for liberation.I had the wonderful opportunity to visit Normandy and most of the WWI and WWII sites in France, while treating my oldest son, Thom (a HUGE military history buff), to a vacation last Fall. The two of us covered most of the northern part of France from Paris to Normandy, to the German border, to the white cliffs of Dover, and onto London, seeing everything we could with cameras in tow. Normandy's beaches, the American Cemetary, and the surrounding countryside is all so very touching and I felt especially proud to be an American. I learned so much about the history, strategy and tactics of both Wars through the eyes and knowledge of my son.
Thom left for Boot Camp over three weeks ago.. and until today all we had was the brief, obligatory phone call to say he arrived safely at the Base. Today, FINALLY, there's mail, and it's such a pleasure to now have an address to send him letters and cards. I'm not sure homemade chocolate chip cookies are permitted just yet!! But you know once they're allowed he'll be getting care packages, just like his Dad and our cousins got during the VietNam war and since. The tradition continues.
Coincidently, I made this card today so I could send to him, knowing I would hear from him sometime soon. But with this anniversary approaching, I was also thinking of D-Day and the solemn, sobering feelings it brings knowing I walked on the same beaches where US and Allied soldiers were in combat 65 years ago.
Here's a picture of my own personal "Patriot". I wish him "God speed". At ease soldier!
Details: Jessica Lynn Original Digital image, copic markers, misc DP, white and black linen paper.
