 It was called Operation Dragoon, an Allied invasion on the beaches of southern France that led to that area's successful liberation in World War II. U.S. service members, veterans, and dignitaries of several Allied nations have come to this historical scene. Those gathered are here to attend remembrance ceremonies at the Cross of Lorraine, at sea, and at the Rhone American Cemetery in Dragaignon. We are here to remember and honor the men who fought along the beaches and coasts of southern France during the summer of 1944, when over 90,000 French, Canadian, British, and Americans landed on these shores and liberated southern France. Time will not diminish the magnitude of what they endured, nor the appreciation and respect to be hold for their courage. Although the liberation took place 70 years ago, the partnerships remain today. Enduring friendship between our nations is strong, and there have been many, many occasions where we have come together as allies to maintain security and stability in the most volatile of regions. Even today, from Afghanistan to the Levant and Africa, on the high seas and ashore, France and America are united. Those ceremonies have drawn to a close, but remembrance will continue honoring those that made the ultimate sacrifice. Senior M. and Levi Rouse, Thule Sumeur, France.