It’s been 80 years since we stormed the beaches of Normandy on D-Day. Today, we would like to honor our fallen and give tribute to those who kicked off the impossible and still succeeded. 

And, of course, we will cover some highlights in the military news. Here is what we have for you.

Marine Corps Capt. James A. Graham's story is a testament to the bravery that defines the Medal of Honor recipients. During the Vietnam War, Graham, a helicopter pilot, demonstrated unparalleled courage and selflessness. His actions on June 2, 1967, would forever etch his name in the annals of heroism. Graham was part of a rescue mission to retrieve a reconnaissance team surrounded by enemy forces. 

Despite heavy enemy fire and losing his co-pilot, Graham managed to land his helicopter, allowing the team to board. As they were taking off, a grenade exploded in the helicopter, severely injuring Graham and causing the loss of his right eye. Despite his grave injuries, Graham continued to fly the helicopter, ensuring the safe return of the team. His actions saved the lives of the reconnaissance team and his remaining crew members. 

Graham was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary heroism and selfless service, a fitting tribute to a true American hero.

The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, an American aircraft carrier, has been targeted in the Red Sea by the Houthis, a group of rebels in Yemen. This attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in the region. 

The Houthis have claimed responsibility for the attack, saying that they used drones and missiles to target the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. However, U.S. officials have denied these claims, stating there was no attack. This incident comes amidst heightened tensions in the area, with the U.S. and Britain recently conducting strikes in Yemen, targeting Sanaa, Hodeidah, and Taiz. The Houthis have stated that their attack on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower was a response to these strikes. 

The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower is currently deployed in the Red Sea, and its presence has been extended by one month due to the ongoing Houthi attacks.

A commemorative event marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day took place on Sunday, June 2, 2024, with a mass parachute jump over the historic site in Normandy. The jump involved over 1,000 paratroopers, including 250 from the U.S., who recreated the airborne assault on German positions that occurred on June 6, 1944. 

This event is part of commemorations to honor the soldiers who participated in the Normandy landings. The jump was a tribute to the past and a celebration of the enduring transatlantic relationship between the U.S. and France.

It was a spectacle that brought together veterans, military personnel, and spectators to remember the sacrifices made during World War II.

On June 3, 1916, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson signed the National Defense Act, a significant piece of legislation that expanded the size and scope of the National Guard. This act transformed the National Guard into the nation's permanent reserve force and granted the President authority to mobilize the Guard in case of war or national emergency. 

The National Defense Act also mandated that the term "National Guard" refer to the combined network of states' militias and set qualifications for National Guard officers. Additionally, it created the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) and set the stage for the U.S. Navy to become the most powerful in the world by 1925. 

The act responded to the need for increased military preparedness and the ongoing situation with Mexican rebel leader Pancho Villa.

It’s been a long weekend, and many mourn and celebrate those who served in WWII. Our freedoms are given by those who made and continue to make the ultimate sacrifice. Never forgotten, God Bless.

Semper Fi,