Last Friday was the 70th anniversary of D-Day. My father was one of many who landed on the beaches that hellish day, and he served in the infantry in Europe throughout the war. He was awarded 3 purple hearts, the bronze star and silver star, and other service medals.

Deepest thanks to all American and allied vets for your service and sacrifice; and to WW2 vets in particular.

I was in France last week: We had planned to go through Normandy last Friday but the commemorative visit by Obama and Putin (and scheduled road closings) triggered a decision to avoid that area. The image below was taken west of Omaha Beach in Val André, Brittany. This Nazi bunker was angled to have a commanding view of the beach and approach.

It's very sobering to imagine what it would have been like over there 70 years ago. Today it's a thriving beach community with many upscale vacation properties. The French still appreciate America's contribution to their freedom. The Nazi occupation is remembered.