Sardis native takes part in D-Day commemoration

Pfc. Daniel C. Willis Senior leaders often call the son of a Sardis woman, and those who serve with him, a part of the next "greatest generation." Army Pfc. Daniel

C. Willis, son of Donna Lynn Herndon of Sardis, recently traveled to nows ilenced battlefields with names like Omaha and Utah beaches to observe the

65th Commemoration of D-Day.

They were there to honor those who were a part of that "greatest generation" who served in one of the bloodiest and most decisive battles in world history. Willis, a military policeman, and more than 1,000 service members from posts and bases throughout Europe and the U.S., converged on the historic Normandy area to honor those who served, and in many cases made the ultimate sacrifice, on June 6, 1944. Week-long ceremonies took place throughout the region in such historic places as St. Mere Eglise, Omaha and Utah beaches and small villages in the area that were vital to the success of the Allies' push into Europe against Nazi Germany.

President Obama met with leaders from Great Britain, France and Canada at a special ceremony at the American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach. Celebrations at small towns throughout Normandy were capped by a parachute demonstration from airborne paratroopers representing many of the units involved with the D-Day operations.

"My role during the D-Day ceremonies was to be a part of the Salute Batteries taking place during the ceremony," said Willis, a 2007 graduate of Burke County High School. "My specific job was as a loader for the cannons."

For Willis, it was hard to imagine that the tranquil farming villages and pristine beaches were once the scene of carnage and destruction that took the lives of more than 4,000 Americans in just one day.

"I agree that Normandy is an amazing historical site. I'm proud to have been able to come and honor the not-forgotten soldiers and veterans of that war. To be honest, it was more than that. I sat on the cliff and listened to the wind telling me their story, and they have a lot to tell," said Willis.

Today, the 360 miles of coastline that makes up Normandy is mostly lush farmland, bustling market towns and historic landmarks that commemorate important battles that took place more than six decades ago. The residents of the area have never forgotten the sacrifices of the Americans who fought here and embrace today's soldiers just as heartily as those who liberated them.

Willis is normally stationed in Heidelberg, Germany, with the 529th Military Police Company, where he works as a military policeman. He has served in the Army for a year and a half, but has not yet deployed.