WASHINGTON, D.C. – On the Senate Floor, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) recapped her recent visit to Normandy, France, where she honored World War II veterans and Tennesseans on the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landing.

Click here to download the speech.

Brave Men Embarked on a Mission to Defend the Free World

“Eighty years ago this month, America and our allies embarked on a mission that would change the course of history: We stormed the beaches of Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944.

Along with our allies, we formed the largest armada in world history—with more than 5,000 ships and 13,000 aircraft—with the goal of liberating Nazi-occupied Europe and defending the free world.

To our country’s eternal gratitude, those brave soldiers succeeded. And on the 80th anniversary of D-Day on June 6th, I joined a bipartisan Senate delegation to Normandy to honor the Americans and Tennesseans who put their lives on the line in the name of freedom.”

Meeting With Tennessee Hero Cletis Bailey

“Of the 16.4 million Americans who served in WWII, less than 1 percent are still with us today, so it was a special honor to meet with some of these brave heroes during the memorial services.

Among them was Tennessee native Cletis Bailey, who fought to liberate Europe while serving in the 84th Infantry Division.

Two years ago, at the age of 96, Mr. Bailey received a Bronze Star for fighting at the Battle of the Bulge—76 years after his service came to an end.

Like so many Americans who served in WWII, Mr. Bailey was gracious and humble about the incredible sacrifices he made to defend our country. It was a powerful reminder that the Greatest Generation viewed service to our country—even through the horrors of war—as their duty as Americans.”

Championing Legislation to Support Our Veterans

“In so many ways, Normandy is a reminder that America is the home of the free because of the brave. And while we can never repay their sacrifices, we must ensure that no veteran is left behind—especially when it comes to the benefits and quality care that they deserve.

In the Senate, I have championed legislation to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs’ caregiver program and protect veterans’ personal information.

Thankfully, both bills became law, but there is so much more we can do for our veterans.

That’s why I introduced the Veterans Health Care Freedom Act, which would expand health care options for veterans by allowing them to seek care in their local communities instead of VA facilities that are often far away from their homes.

These efforts will not only benefit our nation’s veterans, but also the more than 1.2 million active duty troops when their service comes to an end.”