North Charlotte Today

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) published an op-ed reflecting on D-Day and the importance of recommitting to preserving alliances and combatting authoritarianism in today's world.

Senator Tillis emphasized the historical significance of D-Day: "On the morning of June 6, 1944, the United States, the United Kingdom and Canadian forces embarked on one of the most successful military operations in world history. They stormed the beaches of Normandy in the name of liberty and freedom. That fateful day on the beaches of Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword changed the course of the war and, thus, the course of history."

He also drew parallels between D-Day and contemporary challenges: "It is often said that ‘History doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes,’ and as we reflect upon the 80th anniversary of the Allies’ victory at Normandy, we should take note of the parallels between then and now. Once again, the world is confronted with a regime that has shown a flagrant disregard for human rights and international norms."

On supporting NATO, Senator Tillis stated: "NATO is so strong 75 years after its founding because each nation is bound together by the belief that we are stronger together. Our shared defense and fierce protection of democracy unites us. Beyond that, the alliance helps protect our collective interests by pooling resources so we can respond to emerging security threats while maintaining competitiveness in cyber and artificial intelligence. In recent years, our European allies have stepped up, but they must do more to increase defense spending and invest in capabilities to ensure NATO’s strength."

Finally, he underscored learning lessons from history: "With so much at stake in an ever-shifting landscape, learning lessons from history and recommitting to preserving and strengthening our alliances is the only means for victory. Just as it was in 1944 when the strength of our alliances ensured victory, that’s how democracy will continue to prevail."

###