Special 75th Anniversary D-Day 5-Minute-Freewrite

Source

There are three things Great-Grandfather is not for: beaches, water flowing under pressure, and big dogs like German Shepherds. Not that he is afraid of those things, but that he just won't be bothered.

No matter how hot the summer is, and no matter how many days the family is at the beach, Great-Grandfather isn't coming.

Great-Grandfather's front and backyards are irrigated; no garden hoses, even, for him.

Great-Grandfather simply does not visit his relatives with large dogs, unless they are service dogs. Even then, the dogs have to be kept well away from him.

No adult dared to ask him why. I did not suppose they knew either, but I was that one great-grandchild who always wanted to know why.

So, I asked him today, because I felt old enough.

"75 years ago yesterday, great-granddaughter, I went to the beach for the last time, so the whole world could be safe going to the beach, especially our Jewish friends. I came home and faced big hoses and big dogs so YOU could be safe anywhere in this country. I've done with all that. I won on all fronts. No need to go stir up bad memories. You go and enjoy my victory, great-granddaughter, with your friends of every race and creed."

Yesterday was the 75th anniversary of D-Day. Great-Grandfather fought on Omaha Beach when he was just 20 years old, younger than I am now. He then came home and spent another 30 years fighting for the civil rights of his own Black people, alongside his own children.

Thank you for your service, Great-Grandfather, along with every brave veteran who fought for freedom abroad, and also, right here at home. I intend to enjoy your victory, indeed.

Photo Credit: Xan Griffin on Unsplash