Every year in early June, we observe Memorial Day and remember the anniversary of the Normandy invasion of World War II commonly called “D-day.” By the way, the “D” simply stands for whatever day a military assault is planned. For example; D-3 meant three days before a D-Day, while D+7 meant seven days after a D-Day. On June 6, 1944, America and her allies engaged in one of the most significant military operations of the 20th century. I have been personally touched by war and have a deep appreciation for the service and sacrifice that men and women give to protect our country. My mother’s brother, Kenny Maye, was killed in Korea and I have his tags, casket flag and one picture of him. He was only 20 years old in 1950. Sadly, his existence is nearly unknown and I often wonder about the life he could have had. To everyone who has sacrificed for this great nation, I sincerely thank you for your service.

As chaplain for a veteran health care facility, I have the opportunity to spend time with some very special people, and one of these residents is a man named Edward Hicks who willingly stepped forward when his country needed him the most. He was only 22 years old and had just married his lovely bride, Mary Lou, four months earlier. He received the call to join the front line, and bravely responded to what would be known around the world as “Operation Overlord.” 

Edward and his company were assigned to six miles of beach that was code-named “Omaha,” which has been recorded as one of the bloodiest first wave battles of Normandy. Only 600 men survived out of 2600 who came ashore. He recalls when he jumped out of the amphibious vehicle, how the water was up to his neck and icy cold. With being loaded down with full gear that was now water-logged, he said it was very difficult to keep from drowning. As bullets were splashing the water and whizzing past his head, all he knew to do was to stay as low as possible. Using floating bodies as shields, he was nearly paralyzed with fear. As he slowly crawled upon the sand, he immediately began to dig a hole where he could partially avoid the onslaught of constant machine gun fire. Somehow throughout the day and thankfully with the Germans running out of ammunition, he managed to work his way inland and on to accomplish the rest of his mission. He received several medals for bravery, including a silver star and four bronze stars, but there is much more to being a hero than human fortitude and earning awards. It is recognizing the depth of spiritual love. The love that Jesus demonstrated on the cross is the type of compassion that inspires individuals to love and protect others as much as they love themselves. John 15:13 reminds us that, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

Dr. Holland lives in Central Kentucky with his wife Cheryl, where he is a Christian author and community outreach chaplain. To learn more visit billyhollandministries.com.