Klinker commemorates anniversary of D-Day, honors veterans
State Rep. Sheila Klinker (D-Lafayette), offered the following statement today to commemorate the 79th anniversary of D-Day, which turned the tides of the Second World War:
“While today marks the anniversary of the largest sea-borne invasion in military history, and one that made an Allied victory possible, we also must remember the roughly 29,000 American men who lost their lives in that battle and the 106,000 Americans who were either wounded or missing in action following the invasion. Every year, June 6th is a solemn reminder that freedom isn't free.
“Like many young children growing up during World War II, I remember hearing stories of the war from my older brother, Thomas Johnston, who served as a Navy medic off the coast of Japan. Now 97 years old, Tom's life was greatly shaped by the war and the horrors he saw while overseas. My other brother, Kevin Johnston, followed in his footsteps and joined the Marine Corps Flight Program after graduating from Wabash College and served during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, flying over 300 missions. Sadly, Kevin passed away at the age of 48 due to complications stemming from Agent Orange defoliant exposure after serving two years in the Pentagon.
“Despite the pain of losing a brother at such a young age, it is an honor to call these two American heroes who put their lives on the line to defend freedom at home and abroad my brothers. During my 40 years as a state Representative, I have worked tirelessly to improve the lives of veterans and honor their sacrifice and the sacrifices made by their families. This year, I was honored to co-sponsor House Bill 1056, which allows all Hoosier veterans, their spouses, minor children and unmarried adult children to be buried in the Indiana State Veterans' Cemetery in Madison and the Indiana Soldiers Home Cemetery in West Lafayette. This important piece of bipartisan legislation helps us honor all Hoosiers who answered the call to serve our country, as well as allow them the dignity of being buried with their loved ones.
“Today, 79 years after one of the most impactful American military operations, we all ought to remember not only the men who fought for the creation of the free world that we are blessed to experience today, but the men and women throughout history who have defended America and democracies around the world. As we begin preparing for the 2024 session of the Indiana General Assembly, I look forward to continuing my work with Hoosier veterans and their families to honor their service and enhance state benefits for the men and women who so bravely served our country.”