FDR'S D-DAY PRAYER JUNE 6TH, 1944
Films such as "Saving Private Ryan", "The Thin Red Line", and "U 571" bring to life the struggles of a whole generation of Americans who fought tyranny in World War II. No movie, however, could adequately capture the sense of dedication and courage which so many ordinary men and women demonstrated in order to bring an end to the horrors that were being committed against innocent people around the world. Sadly, this generation is passing on, as about 1,000 of these heroes are now dying each day due to old age. We must remember and honor these great people to whom America--and you and I--owe everything.
June 6, 1944, is the Anniversary of D-Day. On that day, Allied soldiers stormed onto the French coast to begin the liberation of Europe, then still firmly in Hitler’s grip. It was a bitter struggle for those first units, and by the end of the day, 4,900 soldiers had given their lives. Across the US, people fell to their knees in prayer; churches, synagogues were packed; the Liberty Bell was sounded; and people openly wept. It was a day of millions of prayers for the welfare of our troops and the success of the mission. That night, President Roosevelt went on radio to lead the Nation in prayer:
Almighty God,
Our sons, pride of our Nation,
This day have set upon a mighty endeavor;
a struggle to preserve our republic, our religion,
and our civilization,
and to set free a suffering humanity . . . They fight to end conquest…
They fight to liberate . . .
They yearn but for the end of battle,
for their return to the haven of home.
Success may not come with rushing speed,
but we shall return again and again;
and we know by Thy grace, and the righteousness
of our cause, our sons will triumph.
Thy will be done, Almighty God, Amen.
Chaplain Mitch Schranz
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