This is being written on the near eve of the anniversary of D-Day (6 June 1944) from a place in the world that these individuals, these heroes (albeit some of them reluctantly so, just doing their jobs and desperately seeking to do what is right) never envisioned. We as a country, as a culture, as a people are being called upon once again to look within ourselves and rise to an occasion and be heroes (albeit, some of us reluctantly so, and desperately seeking to do what is right). 

As D-Day came to be, the Supreme Allied Commander, General Dwight D. Eisenhower addressed those he was commanding. His words are inspiring. While temporally displaced and perhaps culturally displaced by a few generations, we can take something away from them today... and remember the intent. 

"Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen of the Allied Expeditionary Force!

You are about to embark upon the Great Crusade, toward which we have striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you. The hope and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you. In company with our brave Allies and brothers-in-arms on other Fronts, you will bring about the destruction of the German war machine, the elimination of Nazi tyranny over the oppressed peoples of Europe, and security for ourselves in a free world.

Your task will not be an easy one. Your enemy is well trained, well equipped and battle-hardened. He will fight savagely.

But this is the year 1944! Much has happened since the Nazi triumphs of 1940-41. The united nations have inflicted upon the Germans great defeats, in open battle, man-to-man. Our air offensive has seriously reduced their strength in the air and their capacity to wage war on the ground. Our Home Fronts have given us an overwhelming superiority in weapons and munitions of war, and placed at our disposal great reserves of trained fighting men. The tide has turned! The free men of the world are marching together to Victory!

I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full Victory!

Good luck! And let us beseech the blessing of Almighty God upon this great and noble undertaking."