American Veterans Buried and Honored Across the Sea

Today we give honor to all veterans
by talking about those who fought
in Italy the day before Normandy.

Photo by Mary Vee

The day before the final battle to end WWII, American soldiers fought with other nations to oust the Nazi regime from Italy.

The battle is little remembered because the great focus on Normandy.

But the Italians haven't forgotten this sacrifice.

Our guide stood before this field of crosses and passionately shared how these soldiers, most in their young twenties, never had a chance to go home and get married, kiss their girl, see their baby, go to college. They never had another Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Valentines Day. Instead, they gave their lives for a desperate cause.

His vivid words brought tears to every man and woman in our group.

But the sacrifice of these soldiers came one day before Normandy and so isn't remembered. So I am sharing today. This was the battle the Nazi's were forced to leave Italy. A day the Italians remember.

Family members had the option to let their loved one be buried with his friends in arm or to be sent home. Those in the video are the ones who opted to let their loved one stay.

The sacrifice was great.

We received the benefits.

I think you'll enjoy this video I captured in Italy, only seconds long.

Not everyone enters the military with the intent to give their life for their country, yet many find themselves in this position. Bullet whiz by. Land mine explodes. One soldier sees another injured and helps him. Another signals danger.

There is nothing glamorous about war. Soldiers from the past didn't know me, neither do soldiers who serve today.

Yet the result of their service is a gift to all Americans. One that allows us to go about our daily lives in peace.

Years ago, God sent his Son, Jesus, to go to battle to rescue us. We'd fallen into a mire with no hope or way of rescue. Jesus fought the fierce battle at Calvary and clearly had the edge. His victory gave us the freedom to choose heaven.

Jesus understands the hardships of battle. He knows the meaning of sacrifice and loss of life. And despite our sins, He listens and helps. Warns and protects. Comforts and encourages.

The earth continues to turn, gravity functions, the sun maintains the temperature at a level we need, the water cycle and web of life functions for our survival as God designed them.

To all the men and women who have and are serving in the United States military: Thank you for the freedoms you have insured for us.

To God, Thank you for taking care of us, listening, and providing the way for our eternal life.

Do you know someone who has served or is currently serving? Please honor them by putting either their first name and branch of service, or their connection to you in the comment section.

I'll start:
My dad - Army
My husband - Air Force
My brother - Marines
My brother-in-law - Navy

Let's honor those you know, too:

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