I have recently learned that my great-grandfather served in the 7th Field Artillery during WWII. The 7th Field Artillery participated in 1st Infantry Division's assault of Omaha Beach in June 1944. While I cannot say with absolute certainty that he was part of that unit on D-Day, I do know he witnessed many difficult things which he never wanted to speak of. And I can imagine he served alongside men who were part of the assault on Omaha Beach. Was he in this picture? Was this the view he witnessed that day? 3 months later, he wrote to my grandmother from an undisclosed location that he hoped "this mess" would all be over soon and he could see his family again. He had no idea when or if he would be back home. Thank God he did make it home eventually. Many did not. They really are the greatest generation.
: Into the Jaws of Death by Robert F. Sargent
