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To the editor: WWII memorial needs attention

To the editor: WWII memorial needs attention

Monday marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day and the success of failure of the operation fell on the shoulders of men just out of high school. For those of us with a tie to World War II, the day takes on a different meaning.

When I think of D-Day, I think of my grandfather, Roger Durbin, the World War II veteran, and a simple act that he did nearly 40 years ago. At a local fish fry in Jerusalem Township, Ohio, he pressed the then-new Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur about why there was no WWII memorial in Washington, D.C., where he and his generation could take their grandchildren.

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With that, Congresswoman Kaptur set out and introduced legislation to build a memorial in the nation’s capital for all World War II veterans. It took her four attempts, but the legislation finally passed and was signed into law in 1993. My grandfather, Roger Durbin, was at the groundbreaking with the President.

As we approach the 80th anniversary of Operation Overlord, or more commonly known as D-Day, we reflect on the recent 20th anniversary of the National World War II Memorial’s dedication. This memorial is a heartfelt tribute to the ordinary men and women who bravely fought and sacrificed their lives during World War II. Drawing millions of visitors annually from across the nation and the globe, it has become a cherished destination.

For many young visitors, their time at the memorial offers a profound introduction to the nation’s gratitude for the brave individuals who stood against tyranny. It holds a special place for WWII veterans as a site for reunions, contemplation, and remembrance.

As a symbol of America’s unity, the Memorial stands as a timeless reminder of the moral strength that emerges when free people unite for the cause of liberty.

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However, signs of wear and tear are beginning to show after two decades. The National Park Service faces a daunting $23 billion maintenance backlog, making it challenging to address necessary repairs.

So, it’s Congresswoman Kaptur to the rescue again. She, along with her cosponsors in the House and Senate, wrote the Greatest Generation Commemorative Coin Act, which authorizes the U.S. Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of the National World War II Memorial in Washington. Proceeds from the sale of the commemorative coins will be used to maintain and repair the memorial, as well as for robust educational and commemorative programming.

The proceeds of the sale of each coin will go to the Friends of the National World War II Memorial, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2007, to maintain and repair the Memorial, and for educational programming. Friends plays a vital role in educating the American public about World War II; preserving and maintaining the National World War II Memorial as a treasure for the American people; and facilitating key commemorative programs at the Memorial to pay a fitting tribute to America’s “Greatest Generation.”

My grandfather was always the “impassioned patriot.” He spent much of his life in one form of public service or another. Perhaps one of his greatest achievements was his drive to create a World War II Memorial built for his fellow veterans. Eighty years later from D-Day, let’s be sure we take a moment to honor my grandfather and all World War II veterans during their memorial’s 20th anniversary dedication and all who sacrificed of themselves in Normandy.

Melissa Tsuji is a resident of Berkey, Ohio. She served a presidential appointment to the National World War II Memorial Advisory Board. Her grandfather, Roger Durbin, served in the 10th Armored Division in World War II.

First Published May 27, 2024, 4:00 a.m.

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