By: Robert Reed
It was the beginning of the end, though the end would not be realized for almost another bloody year!
On June 5, 1944, Supreme Allied Commander, Dwight D. Eisenhower sent a message to his troops: 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 hopes and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you.
The next day many did march to his orders; some of them gave their last full measure. In the spirit of remembering the June 6, 1944 Normandy, France, D-Day landings, a ceremony will be held that will honor the living and remember those that march no more. The event will take place at the Las Vegas Elks Lodge, 4100 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NV at 2 P.M. Admission is free though seating is limited to 250.
Scheduled to participate: Carnell Johnson, known at the “Golden Pipes” of the Golden Knights; the Nellis AFB Honor Guard; Mark Hall-Patton, curator of the Clark County Museum and regular guest on Pawn Stars; author, Stephen Nasser, Auschwitz concentration camp survivor; WWII military vehicles provided by Battlefield Vegas; Las Vegas Strip performers singing 1940’s music, patriotic songs and much, much more!
The real guests for the day will be our WWII Veterans who will be in attendance. If you know of a WWII Veteran (regardless of the theater where they participated) please pass on the information regarding the event. Their gate may be slowed by age, but their eyes are still bright; every one of them has said that they would do it again in a heartbeat! Should you have any question regarding the event, please feel free to contact the event coordinator, Bob Reed at usveterans@cox.net.
