NORMANDY, FRANCE — U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger today released the following statement on the 75th anniversary of D-Day.

“Seventy-five years ago, the largest invasion in world history began. As American servicemembers led the allied assault, the fate of Europe was truly hanging in the balance. Beyond the rough weather and immediate dangers of that fateful day, there was great uncertainty about whether the allies could sustain a coalition that would successfully liberate those besieged by tyranny. The Americans who first landed at Normandy were not the generals who drafted the plans, the lawmakers who declared war, or the pundits who debated the merits of action. They were young men who, though recognizing the perils ahead, pressed on with uncommon resolve. Their heroism embodied one of the fundamental values of their generation—service to country.

“Today, I’m proud to join my House and Senate colleagues in remembering the unparalleled commitment to the defense of our nation’s principles of those who landed here and the sacrifice of those who rest forever near the beaches of Normandy. I’m humbled to stand alongside those who landed on these shores and fought against overwhelming odds, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to thank them for their role in liberating the people of Europe. Their finest hour should serve as an example to all of us. Particularly as we face destabilizing forces across the globe in our own time, we should reflect on their commitment to our allies and their devotion to the principle and pursuit of freedom.”

Spanberger is part of a bipartisan delegation visiting Normandy, France to mark the invasion’s anniversary alongside veterans, families of those who served, active duty servicemembers, military officials, and foreign dignitaries.

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