Today they look like harmless old men sitting in the sun. But inside each of these heroes still beats the courageous heart of a youthful US warrior who faced down unimaginable terror to take the beaches of Normandy in June 1944.
Yesterday a few survivors had returned to that scene of brutal carnage to remember the day that changed the world and to honor their fallen brothers. It was heartwarming to see the veterans cheered by French school children. As I learned on my visit to Normandy two years ago, the French people have a long memory for the gift of their freedom, so dearly purchased.
Americans can only stand aside with profound respect for and gratitude to these remarkable saviors. When the last of them are gone, it will be a very sad day for our country. We shall not see their like again.
