This short clip of two 90-year-old army veterans sharing a heartwarming reunion is sure to touch many hearts! In fact, that’s the focus of all the video clips you’ll find at “Poke My Heart,” a YouTube channel whose mission is to share videos that “celebrate[s] moments that make your day brighter.” This one certainly will!
Watch as this pair of Airborne Army Veterans reunite in Normandy where they fought together nearly 8 decades ago. Dressed in semi-casual military garb, the gentlemen wear pins, medals, badges, patches, cords, and other regalia on their uniforms. Both are equipped with canes, and one holds a cigar between two fingers on his left hand. They sport garrison caps, which are also called side caps, flight caps, or wedge caps, depending on the wearer’s country of origin.
While both World War II paratroopers appear to be in great shape, the man facing the camera looks a bit sprier. He transfers his cane to his cigar-holding hand and strides open-armed and all smiles into an embrace with the man whose back is to the camera. It is a beautiful moment!
Sharing the experience of war must be like nothing else. Serving one’s country in such high-stakes situations undoubtedly creates a bond that is unique and different from any other. There is a small crowd of family and friends around the two; they clap and take pictures. But, as the veterans shake hands and share a short exchange shown here, they look like best friends—as if they could sit and talk for hours without missing a beat after so very many years apart.
The D-Day operation began on June 6, 1944 , also known as Operation Overlord, and utilized land, air, and sea forces of the allied armies in what became recognized as the largest military invasion in human history. On that day, 160,000 troops arrived in Normandy, and, by the end of August 1944, over two million Allied troops were in France. The Battle of Normandy was critical in the ultimate defeat of the German forces and the victory by allied forces in World War II.
These two men represent bravery and heroism, character and patriotism! What a joy it is to see them reach an advanced age and share this sweet reunion with one another! Thank you, sirs, for your service!
“Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 2:3