On this day 72 years ago, 6,603 American soldiers were killed in action during the invasion of Normandy. These happy, healthy, courageous young men were full of life and ready to lay down their lives to liberate a country that few of them had ever even seen before. They were taken from this earth at such a young age so long ago that I fear they will be forgotten. That is why I do Project Vigil.

From Saving Private Ryan: Omaha Beach, June 6th, 1944

From Band of Brothers: June 5th, 1944

The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial on the bluff overlooking Omaha Beach