changed the course of history.

On June 6, 1944, Allied forces landed on the coast of Normandy in what was the start of the campaign to liberate Europe in World War II. Now, 78 years later, ceremonies are still held throughout the United States, in Great Britain, and in France to commemorate this seminal battle that changed the course of history.

Today, D-day is remembered by many as the beginning of the end of World War II, but in the early hours of June 6, success was not a certainty. After years of fighting and strategic planning, the stakes were enormous for the more than 156,000 Allied service members who crossed the English Channel that day. Over 4,000 lives would be lost in taking the beaches at Normandy and the ensuing battle to gain ground.

The operation, code named “Overlord,” was years in the planning and was most noted for the strategic contributions of its leadership. The men assigned with planning Operation Overlord were tasked with decisions such as determining how many men would land on each beach, which ships would be used to cross the English Channel, what supply chain logistics to use to ensure adequate food and medication, and establishing secure lines of communication.

The right leadership was essential, and as we gather this year to commemorate that effort, we are reminded that in a worst-case scenario, NDU is charged with educating the men and women who would be similarly charged with the grave responsibility to plan the military response to any action that threatens the national security of the United States.

Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower encouraged Allied soldiers taking part in the D-day invasion of June 6, 1944, reminding them, “The eyes of the world are upon you,” before they embarked on “a great crusade.”