Posted by Scott Lien, CEO & Co-Founder of GrandPad

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June 1, 2025

Today I arrived in Normandy, France—my first time visiting this sacred ground—and I was overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude. This is not just a personal milestone—it’s a deeply meaningful journey, one that allows me to honor all veterans, especially the WWII heroes who helped liberate Europe 81 years ago.

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As our group landed on the tarmac, we were met with cheers, flags, salutes, and music. It was one of the most heartfelt welcomes I’ve ever witnessed.

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🇫🇷 A People Who Have Never Forgotten

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The people of Normandy haven’t forgotten what happened here on June 6, 1944. They haven’t forgotten the American, British, Canadian, and Allied troops who risked—and gave—their lives to push back tyranny and bring peace to Europe. And what moved me most today was that the gratitude is still alive, not just in the hearts of older generations, but in the children, who smile, wave flags, and thank our veterans with sincerity and joy.

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🇺🇸 A Ceremony of Honor

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I had the privilege of attending an official ceremony with Delta Air Lines and Best Defense Foundation. Seeing the American and French flags displayed side by side, hearing tributes to our "eternal heroes," and watching veterans receive standing ovations was one of the most powerful moments of the day.

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💬 Connection Across Generations

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One of the most touching moments for me happened in a quiet corner of the event, where a French woman knelt to speak with a WWII veteran in a wheelchair. Her eyes were filled with emotion. Her children watched quietly. It wasn’t about language—it was about gratitude and respect that transcends generations and borders.

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✈️ A Hero's Welcome

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As more veterans arrived throughout the day, we formed a reception line to greet them. Bagpipes played, soldiers saluted, and the crowd erupted in cheers. I’ve never seen anything like it. For many of these veterans, this is their final visit to Normandy, and I know they feel the love.

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📬 Join Me on This Journey

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This trip is not only about remembrance—it’s about connection, education, and carrying these stories forward. I hope you’ll follow along, share this post, and reflect on how we can all honor veterans in our own lives.

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👉 Sign up for daily blog updates from Normandy:

https://www.grandpad.net/normandy-updates

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With heartfelt thanks to all who have served,

Scott Lien

CEO & Co-Founder

GrandPad

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