Palmetto State News

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) issued a statement today following his attendance at the 80th anniversary ceremony of the D-Day landings in Normandy, France. Graham was part of a bipartisan Senate delegation that traveled to Normandy for the commemoration.

"Being able to attend the 80th anniversary ceremony commemorating the D-Day landings with World War II veterans was one of the highlights of my life. Their average age was 100 and their bodies were frail, but their spirit was strong. Their minds and wit were incredibly sharp," said Graham.

He recounted a conversation with some of the veterans: "When I asked them what it felt like coming back, they jokingly said people are friendlier this time and it’s much quieter."

Reflecting on his interactions with the veterans, Graham stated, "After spending time with these World War II veterans, it’s crystal clear why we won the war and why they have been deemed the Greatest Generation."

Graham also drew parallels between past and present conflicts: "However, there is a chill in the air. Eighty years after D-Day there is a land war in Europe where Russia is trying to rewrite the map of Europe by force of arms. Eighty years after D-Day, we also witnessed the largest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust."

He emphasized learning from history: "We rightly applaud the bravery of the common soldier, sailor and airman, and the military leaders of World War II, but it is equally important to learn from those times. Churchill deemed World War II as 'the unnecessary war,' and he was right. There were so many wasted chances to stop Hitler’s aggression."

Graham concluded with a call to action: "I believe that appeasing evil and failing to confront it never works. I am more determined than ever to make sure that we not only honor those who serve but that we push back early and hard against forces that will throw mankind back into darkness."

"May God bless the Greatest Generation," he added.

Photos and video of Senator Graham at the D-Day ceremony in Normandy are available HERE. Details on the bipartisan Senate delegation are HERE.

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