Double Time

At 102, he was the last of his rifle squad. It was also his final chance to visit.

He walked the gray sand to where his “landing craft, vehicle, personnel” came ashore. Ahead, he watched as replica Higgins boats made their way from the English Channel.

The ramp dropped, soldiers pouring out, dashing past him at a dead run. He suddenly saw Smitty and Jones, followed by Anderson, then Begay. It was Begay who handed him a Garand as he raced by.

He turned and followed, catching up with the others. Spectators watched as they faded into the cliffs of Normandy.