Fort Report: It Bears Repeating

Jun 19, 2015

Normally the Fort Report tries to cover a diverse array of topics. This week, however, I want to return to a recent unique event that bears repeating. I had the honor of standing on Utah Beach in Normandy, France, on the 71st anniversary of D-Day to dedicate a new World War II memorial—an incredible gift from the people of Nebraska to the people of France.

The monument is a replica of the one that stands in the entry way of Columbus: a replica of the Higgins Boat troop carrier with three bronze soldiers charging ashore. Andrew Jackson Higgins, the boat’s inventor, is a native son of Nebraska. I was joined by America’s Ambassador to France Jane Hartley; Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services in America; members of the community of Columbus, Nebraska; French officials; visitors; and most importantly, our veterans—to celebrate what one retired British military officer and historian called “the finest monument in Normandy.” One lady who attended remarked, “This makes me want to visit Nebraska.”

The community of Columbus in particular deserves heartfelt thanks for building this memorial in honor of those who fought and died.

Below you can find pictures of the event and the video of the remarks I gave at the ceremony:

New Higgins Memorial on Utah Beach