SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Today marks the 70th anniversary of D-Day.
More than 425,000 Allied and German troops were killed, wounded or went missing during the Battle of Normandy.
This figure includes more than 209,000 Allied casualties, with nearly 37,000 dead amongst the ground forces and a further 16,714 deaths amongst the Allied air forces. Of the Allied casualties, 83,045 were from the 21st Army Group (British, Canadian and Polish ground forces), 125,847 from the U.S. ground forces. The losses of the German forces during the Battle of Normandy can only be estimated. Roughly 200,000 German troops were killed or wounded. The Allies also captured 200,000 prisoners of war (not included in the 425,000 total above). During the fighting around the Falaise Pocket (August 1944) alone, the Germans suffered losses of around 90,000, including prisoners.
More information can be found at the following link:
https://theddaystory.com/discover/what-is-d-day/
It is important to note that nearly 12,000 men and more than 2,000 aircraft were lost in April and May in preparation for D-Day.
Reflect and remember the sacrifice and heroism of those who served before us. D-Day was an incredible event committed by our country's "greatest generation."
Attached is a picture taken at the World War II Memorial last week in Washington D.C. How would you react when you heard that message?
Honor our brothers and sisters in arms by continuing to achieve excellence in all you do.
"The eyes of the world are upon you."
Our wing is outstanding because you are outstanding.
Thank you for your service and commitment to our great nation.
Col. Gregory Gilmour