As a provider of care and accommodations for the senior population, we at Brandon Oaks have had the immense honor of caring for veterans of various wars throughout our history. Of the world wars, WWII veterans are the oldest that are currently still surviving. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs statistics, 496,777 of the 16 million Americans who served in WWII were still living in 2018.
One of the major battles of WWII was D-Day, the largest every amphibious military invasion. The Allied Forces faced horrible weather, seemingly insurmountable odds and the looming cliffs surrounding Normandy’s beaches. Nonetheless, they defeated the Germans which ultimately ended WWII.
As mentioned, we have had the privilege of caring for numerous veterans but we were so humbled to celebrate two of our residents at the 75th Anniversary of D-Day at the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia on June 6, 2019. James “Jim” White, a WWII veteran and a D-Day survivor, Charles “Chuck” Neighbor.
Jim White served during WWII as a Finance Officer and Comptroller and traveled across the European and Pacific theaters. Jim was promoted to a Brigadier General before retiring in 1975.
Chuck Neighbor, served as a private first class in the 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division during WWII. He and his comrades landed on Omaha Beach the morning on June 6, 1944. During the events of the 75th Anniversary Commemoration, Vice President Mike Pence quoted one of Chuck’s diary entries after the invasion, as his words were so poignant and fitting for how the whole scene of the day unfolded.
While harsh, his words are a reminder of what has happened to get us to where we are as a nation today. The freedoms we celebrate, the lifestyles we live, are all thanks to those who gave their lives for their fellow man, even 75 years later. Imagine what our world would be like had they not been successful. This ceremony was seen to be the last major milestone anniversary before the WWII generation of veterans disappears. The main theme was remembering and thanking all who served. Although, many don’t think they did anything anyone else wouldn’t do. Most will just say they were doing their job. This endearing, humble attitude towards such a harrowing experience they survived is a testament to the true heroes in all of them.
Other residents, many who were also veterans of other conflicts, and staff members were able to travel to see this incredibly moving ceremony. At the end of the ceremony, each veteran present was named and they were presented with a special commemorative coin specially made for the event.
Below are some of our pictures from the day’s events and a few words from our staff members who went.
Ben Burks, Executive Director: “The D-Day celebration honored those who risked and sacrificed their very lives for a cause much greater than their own individual feelings and preferences. I took the time to attend because I thought it was important, and I wanted to express my gratitude for their selflessness. Their heroism and legacy should never be forgotten or taken for granted.”
Susan O’Malley, Assisted Living Administrator: “It was a special honor to attend the D-Day celebration to honor Charles Neighbor (D-Day survivor), Jim White and the other veterans of WWII. The memories from the veterans of their experiences were especially moving and the fact that most of them were so young. The loss of so many lives is difficult to realize now. It is hard to imagine the bravery and strength of character it took and still takes, to serve in the military and provide protection for all Americans.”
Meg Rodman, Arts and Education Manager: ” It was a time for reflection and remembrance and truly a remarkable event. Charles (Chuck) Neighbors and Jim White were recognized as WWII veterans Charles is a D-day veteran. Words cannot express the emotions and stories that were shared at this large gathering of veterans and the public together. It was an amazing tribute to all those who gave so much.”
