McCollum Statement on Bipartisan Congressional Delegation for 80th Anniversary of D-Day
Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) released the following statement today on her participation in the bipartisan delegation to Normandy in remembrance of the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
“It is a privilege to travel to Normandy to celebrate and honor the surviving heroes of D-Day and remember the great sacrifices made by the United States and Allied troops who fought and died at the Battle of Normandy on June 6, 1944.
Eighty years ago, Western Allies landed in Northern France and opened up a major military offensive against the Nazi German forces. After 5 years of worldwide warfare, the Normandy invasion proved to be pivotal in pushing the United States and its allied forces to victory. D-Day remains one of the greatest beach landings in world history, involving nearly 3 million troops crossing the English Channel from England to Normandy in occupied France. The cost to the United States was staggering and awful, including more than 29,000 killed and 106,000 wounded and missing.
As a Member of Congress and the daughter of a World War II veteran, I believe I have a duty to honor the those who courageously served our country and gave their lives at the Battle of Normandy. Being part of the 80th Anniversary commemoration in Normandy is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the Americans who served in the United States Armed Forces during the invasion of Normandy. Our country owes all veterans of this conflict a great debt for their service.”
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