The traditional August district work period for Members of Congress provides an opportunity to truly connect with the people that we are fortunate to represent. These four weeks gave me a chance to meet with my constituents, to learn from them, and to honor them.

Without question, the highlight of the four weeks I just spent in East Tennessee, was the two ceremonies where I honored members of  "The Greatest Generation" with the Medal of the Jubilee of Liberty for their service and sacrifice on the beaches of Normandy, France in 1944. One ceremony was held in Clinton at Clinton High School, and the other was held in Chattanooga at Tyner Academy.

These brave patriots landed and courageously went ashore in Normandy between June 6th and August 15th, 1944. This time period followed what we now know as "D-Day" - when the allied forces pushed back tyranny and liberated Europe. These valiant soldiers and sailors preserved European freedom in 1944 and protected our way of life for generations to come.

Sadly, we are losing more than 1000 WWII-era veterans every day in the United States - but we MUST not forget their stories, their sacrifices, and their heroism.

Intentionally, I asked two area high schools to host the medals presentations so young people could attend this emotional and inspirational ceremony. It was my hope that they would better understand what these brave and dedicated Americans endured to protect our freedom. I wanted to show these students what a REAL American hero looks like. They needed to see that there are role models who deserve admiration -- who are NOT movie stars, rock stars or sports stars - but they are brave, honorable men who put their country's needs ahead of their own.

 Young folks today have never lived through a major war and do not realize what it is like, or what price must be paid to avoid it. While these men are still with us, it is imperative that that we pay proper tribute to their service. We must use their lesson of sacrifice and courage to show young people that freedom is not free, and our liberty comes at a price.

My heart?s desire is to do as much as I can for "The Greatest Generation," while these extraordinary individuals still walk among us. We owe veterans of every generation, our highest praise and greatest appreciation.

IF YOU KNOW A NORMANDY VETERAN WHO WOULD BE INTERESTED IN THE JUBILEE OF LIBERTY MEDAL, PLEASE CONTACT MY DISTRICT OFFICE CLOSEST TO YOU OR E-MAIL ME FROM MY WEBSITE AT: http://www.house.gov/wamp/welcome.html

*** OAK RIDGE -- 865-576-1976

*** CHATTANOOGA -- 423-756-2342