Today marks the 66th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Europe, code named Operation Overlord. the Allied invasion of northern France.

At 6:30 a.m., American troops came ashore at Utah and Omaha beaches. At Omaha, the U.S. First Division battled high seas, mist, mines, burning vehicles and German coastal batteries, including an elite infantry division, which spewed heavy fire.

Many wounded Americans ultimately drowned in the high tide. The United States and Britain each lost about 1,000 men, and Canada 355. Before the day was over, 155,000 Allied troops would be in Normandy.

As we remember the bravery of these service men, let’s not forget that we still have Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Sailors in harm’s way across two major fronts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

It is with this in mind, that I am humbled and honored to receive the endorsement of Colonel Bud Day, USAF.

George Everette “Bud” Day  is a retired U.S.  Air Force Colonel and Command Pilot who served during the Vietnam War.   He was shot down, captured and tortured by the North Vietnamese and was held as a POW for more than 5 years.  For part of that time he shared a cell with now-Senator John McCain.  He is often cited as being the most decorated U.S. service member since General Douglas MacArthur, having received some seventy decorations, a majority for actions in combat. Day is a recipient of  the Medal of Honor.

He recently sent me a campaign contribution and an endorsement letter.  Here is an excerpt from his endorsement message:

“I fully endorse Lt. Col. John J. Loughlin II USAR (Ret.) for election to Congress in the year 2010. He is a veteran who is determined to take our country back and to restore some common sense and spending sense to a Congress with few Veterans, and fewer heroes. Please support this candidate. He will not be signing any legislation that he has not read.”

Thank you Colonel Day and thank you the veterans of the D-Day invasion.  I ask that we all give thanks for the men and women who proudly wear the uniform today for their sacrifice and service to this great land.