The events of June 6, 1944, also known as D-Day will always play an important role in our nation’s history and the events of that day were honored during a remembrance brunch hosted by the We Can Be Heroes Foundation June 4.
The Salem Centre auditorium in Jacksonville was packed with people on hand for the annual event and to celebrate guest of honor Frank Pupura, who was a veteran of D-Day and a Purple Heart recipient.
Pupura played an important role on the fateful day as a boat operator on that fateful day, which still serves as the largest amphibious invasion in military history.
Only 18 years old, Pupura was responsible for delivering both men and supplies to the Normandy shore in France.
A piece of shrapnel struck his right eye during his first trip to the beach, but he was patched up and quickly returned to duty to make 50 more trips on the day.
“We’re thankful that you’re here today and we’re thankful as a nation,” said Beth Heath, We Can Be Heroes Foundation President.
Pupura is the oldest member of the local Purple Heart Chapter 524.
“I’m a nervous wreck,” Pupura chuckled as he shared a few words in front of the crowd. “I can’t believe it. I don’t know how to thank you all for this, so I’m just going to say ‘God bless you and God bless America.’”
The family of fellow and late World War II veteran Bob Hall was on hand for the ceremony, as their family sat around a circular table, keeping an empty seat open for their loved one, who passed away earlier in the year.
Heath applauded Bob and his wife Shirley for all the initiatives they have been involved with over the years with the goal of helping local veterans.
The “Let Freedom Sing” Choir sang various patriotic songs to open the ceremony and the Atlantic Coast Young Marines presented the nation’s colors for the pledge of allegiance and national anthem.
D-Day historian and retired Navy Capt. James Ransom III gave a virtual presentation during the ceremony that looked back at it being 78 years since D-Day took place.
“It is arguably the single most important battle of World War II,” Ransom said. “FDR called it ‘A mighty endeavor.’”
Ransom explained how it is easy to see how Pupura would be more susceptible to being hit by shrapnel because while all the other soldiers were tucked down in the boat, the craft’s operators had to have their heads up and visible to see where they were going and properly steer the boat.
“I’m disappointed that I couldn’t be there to have the honor of shaking Frank’s hand,” said Ransom, who had intended to present in-person, but made a late change to the plans after feeling sick in recent days.
The National D-Day Memorial is located in Bedford, Virginia and Ransom encouraged everyone to visit the memorial if they ever get the chance.
