"On Memorial Day, I was honored to speak at the Normandy American Cemetery and humbled to have been in the presence of so many World War II veterans. Today, our nation marks the 65^{th anniversary of D-Day, a day that ultimately changed the course of history.}

"Sixty five years ago today, tens of thousands of Americans and allied soldiers stormed the beaches of Normandy and fought the battles that liberated France; battles that were ultimately decided, as they have always been, by ordinary men and women doing extraordinary things.

"The selfless devotion of D-Day servicemen and women showed a total and unflinching commitment to victory which might seem somehow quaint to us in today’s developed world. But the men and women of D-Day were an extension of an American home front made up of folks from all ages and walks of life.

"On this anniversary of D-Day, we must also honor the generations that came before and after World War II who have unselfishly answered the call to service and given their lives in peace and war. Like the young giants who once crossed the Normandy shore and never went home, they are a constant reminder that liberty is never a guarantee, but a gift that must be defended.

"The legacy of the greatest generation is alive today and the same service and sacrifice that inspired and sustained the generation that fought and won World War II, inspires and sustains the young men and women who at this very hour are protecting our freedoms and liberties abroad.