Fellow Minnesotans,
Today, on this sacred anniversary of D-Day, I pause as a former U.S. Marine and Navy SEAL to reflect on what June 6, 1944, truly means. As someone who has led No-Fail missions from the sea to the shore across multiple deployments, I understand firsthand how brutal and complex it is to fight your way off a beach under fire.
The Normandy landings were not just another battle, they were the largest amphibious invasion in human history.
Over 156,000 Allied troops hit those beaches, supported by more than 7,000 ships and 11,000 aircraft. The scale was staggering, the courage required was immense.
I stand in deep respect and reverence for my Army brothers who formed the main effort that day. Especially the soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division — the Big Red One — who stormed Omaha Beach, took devastating casualties, and secured that critical foothold against fortified Nazi defenses. Their sacrifice made victory possible.
I also want to honor the Naval Combat Demolition Units — the direct predecessors to the Navy SEALs. These warriors were at the absolute tip of the spear, swimming ashore under withering fire to clear obstacles and minefields so the landings could succeed. Their bravery and skill paved the way for every Marine, Soldier, Sailor, and Airman who followed.
It’s sobering to watch how casually some throw around political words like “fascism” today. The Greatest Generation didn’t just talk about fighting fascism — they sailed across an ocean, stormed heavily defended beaches, and gave their lives to destroy real fascism so it would not conquer the world. More than 2,500 Americans paid the ultimate price on D-Day alone.
Today, let us remember their sacrifice with gratitude and renewed purpose. Let their courage inspire us to defend liberty, honor our veterans, and keep America strong. Minnesota has always produced patriots who answer the call — from Fort Snelling’s hallowed grounds to the homes and communities we cherish.
To all who served, especially those who never came home: We will never forget.
God bless you, God bless our veterans, and God bless the United States of America.
Team SFS | Schwarze for Senate 🇺🇸
#DDAY82 #RememberTheirSacrifice #AmericaFirst #MNStrong #WeThePeople