D-Day and the Battleship Missouri


D-Day, June 6, 1944, was 80 years ago.  Over 7,000 ships and landing craft were involved in the greatest maritime operation ever mounted.  The USS Missouri was not there to witness the spectacle or unleash the awesome power of its nine 16-inch guns as it was awaiting completion in the New York Navy Yard in Brookland.  Five days later it would be commissioned; it was the last of the Iowa-class battleships.

Although it did not assist the D-Day landings, her crew was there in spirit.  The ship did not see action in the Atlantic but would go on to serve in the Pacific fighting the Japanese.  Its most famous role there was the signing of Japan's surrender in 1945, you can see the photo above, top left corner.

I have seen both the USS Missouri and Texas and next year I hope to see the aircraft carrier Midway in San Diego.   I admit to having an emotional reaction to being on the decks of the two battleships.  We owe so much to the men and women that served in the armed forces that protected us and gave us the freedoms that we now enjoy.

Yesterday, on the beaches where D-Day occurred, 13 Canadian veterans of the landings were present.  I thank them for their courage and service.

Thanks for reading.

Eric Svendsen     www.ericspix.com

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