David Teacher, No. 71 Royal Air Force Beach Unit, on D-Day:
“Jerry started to shell the beach at about 9am. Suddenly, all hell let loose.
“The beach was under fire from shells, mortars and machine guns, we dived for cover.
“The sea was covered in blood and vomit and flies began to arrive by the thousands, which created another nightmare.
“We continued all night and the following day without a break. Slowly, slowly we overcame all the nightmares….There was no lack of humour.
“A soldier coming ashore asked, ‘Is this a private beach? I was promised a private beach. If not I am not staying.’ And we heard, ‘My mother told me not to travel by air, she thought it was much safer by sea.’
“An army officer came ashore and instead of getting his men off the beach quickly, he stopped to consult his map. I approached him, ‘Sir, off this beach, now!’ ‘And who are you?’ he asked. ‘Sorry, no time for introductions.’”
On this day seventy-five years ago, hundreds of thousands of brave men committed to stop Hitler and freeing Europe from an evil regime. While none of my family members fought in World War Two, my heart is full of gratitude for those that did, many whom gave up their lives. I am free because of them.
Today, take a moment out of your busy Thursday to give thanks to those brave men and their families. For without them, none of us would be here.
Soldiers answered the call
Smite down the enemy
No matter the cost
Freedom and peace the reward.
Let us remember the old adage: Learn from history or we will be bound to repeat it.
MRS N
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