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TEXARKANA, Texas, June 14, 2024 – Bill Sumner from Defense Finance and Accounting Service Texarkana and his spouse, Brenda helped escort four World War II veterans from Massachusetts to the hallowed grounds of Normandy, France, for the 80th anniversary of D-Day, June 3 to June 7.
The veterans, all centenarians except one, included Billy Soule (100), Franklin Simon (100), Christy Fier (100), and Marvin Gilmore (97). Their week in Normandy was a tour of remembrance and gratitude, covering critical WWII sites like Utah and Omaha Beaches, Saint Lo, and the American Cemetery at Normandy.
Throughout the trip, the Sumners helped with the veterans' travel, interactions along the way, and ensured each moment was captured with photos. The volunteers, many of whom were veterans or on active-duty military themselves, shared a deep connection with the older veterans. Soule was on his first visit to Normandy since he landed on Omaha Beach in 1944, and he asked Brenda, who is a major in the U.S. Army, for her autograph to encapsulate the mutual respect across their generations.
The Sumners said their involvement was more than guiding the veterans through the historical sites, because it fostered an exchange of stories and lessons that resonate with the values of service and sacrifice. "It was an incredible honor to accompany these remarkable men as they revisited their past and shared their wisdom with us," Bill Sumner said. “This was truly a once in a lifetime event for my wife and I, and we are very grateful and thankful for the opportunity.”
Andrew Biggio, a former Marine Corps Sergeant and Boston Police Officer, organized the return of these heroes as part of his commitment to preserving their stories in his latest book, “The Rifle 2.”
The journey began at the American Cemetery, where Simon fulfilled his wish to visit for his 100th birthday. The site offered a solemn backdrop for the veterans to reflect on their many comrades now resting there, and the visitors from around the world who attended to honor them.
The next day, the group visited the drop zones for the 82nd and 101st Airborne near St. Mere Eglise and Ravonville, followed by a trip to Utah Beach, where they recalled the formidable challenges faced during the landings. The Normandy Victory Museum celebrated the veterans on June 5, where they met with soldiers, participated in a book signing with Biggio, and shared their stories and experiences from the war with media and others attending the event.
The highlight of the trip came with the official D-Day anniversary ceremony at the American Cemetery. President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron and noted filmmaker Steven Spielberg celebrated the veterans and reflected on their enduring respect and admiration for their service.
Their final day involved tours of St. Lo battle areas and a visit to a re-enactment camp. Billy Soule, experiencing Normandy for the first time since he landed at Omaha Beach in 1944, shared poignant memories with his son, Bruce. In a touching moment, Soule even drove a WWII-era truck, rekindling memories from his service days.
This journey was more than a commemorative trip; it was a living history lesson and a testament to the courage of those who fought for freedom. As the Sumners and the veterans they escorted return home, their stories will continue to inspire and remind us of the enduring spirit of those who serve.
| Date Taken: | 06.14.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 06.14.2024 14:09 |
| Story ID: | 473975 |
| Location: | TEXARKANA, TEXAS, US |
| Hometown: | DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA, US |
| Web Views: | 28 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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