Standing on the sands of Omaha Beach last week, observing the 80th anniversary of D-Day, I was struck by the weight of history around me. Throughout the week, dignitaries—mayors, generals, and heads of state—spoke with reverence, their words echoing the unity of action displayed on June 6, 1944. As I walked along the beaches, the fast-moving tide of the Bay of the Seine washing over my feet, I felt the enduring bond of the Allies—a bond that continues to shape our present and future. It reminded me of the courage and resolve of soldiers from 13 nations who stormed those beaches 80 years ago, under a sky filled with uncertainty but fueled by a singular purpose: to reclaim freedom from tyranny.
Five years later, NATO emerged from the ashes of that conflict, a testament to the collective resolve to prevent future wars and uphold democratic values. Today, NATO represents a shared vision of peace and democracy that binds its members together, a vision as vital now as it was when the alliance was formed over seven decades ago.
Article 5 of NATO's Washington Treaty, which asserts that an attack on one member is an attack on all, has served as a powerful deterrent against aggression. During the Cold War, NATO contained Soviet expansion, preventing another war in Europe. Now, with Russia's resurgence and China's growing influence, NATO's role in maintaining peace and stability is more crucial now than it's ever been.
Over the past 75 years, NATO has evolved to address a wide range of security challenges. From combating terrorism and cyber threats to managing regional conflicts, NATO's adaptability and commitment to crisis management and conflict prevention have ensured that regional instabilities do not escalate into broader conflicts. NATO's interventions in the Balkans, its role in Afghanistan post-9/11, and its efforts against piracy off the Horn of Africa are examples of its enduring relevance.
Reflecting to 1949, we see a Europe still recovering from the ruins of war, with the specter of tyranny looming large. United by a vision of peace, nations came together to form NATO to ensure that the horrors of the past were never repeated. Beyond collective defense, this alliance promoted political stability and democratic governance—vital ingredients for global peace and security.
As the Cold War thawed, Eastern European countries, once under authoritarian regimes, began to see new opportunities. With NATO's support, these nations embarked on a journey of democratic reforms and economic progress. NATO, standing firm on its principles, helped these countries transform, reinforcing democratic governance as the bedrock of global stability.
Certainly, NATO faces challenges, including disparities in defense spending and rising nationalism within its ranks. Yet, it remains the most successful alliance in the history of the free world.
Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has ignited the bloodiest conflict in Europe since World War II, reinforcing NATO's vital role in deterring aggression and maintaining peace. This invasion and the searing images we see from that war are glaring reminders of the ongoing need for a strong, unified NATO to confront emerging challenges and protect national sovereignty.
Last week, walking along Omaha Beach with the runnels in the sand tracing their ancient patterns, I reflected on the brave men who stormed ashore under withering enemy fire. The current threats we face across the Atlantic and beyond make it clear: There is a direct thread from Omaha Beach to Brussels.
In those quiet moments, I realized that only by strengthening these bonds can we truly honor the memory of those who gave their last full measure of devotion on the beaches of Normandy. We owe it to them to carry their legacy forward with the same resolve and dedication, in our own lives, and in the alliance that has prevented another world war from occurring.
Colonel John Fenzel is a retired Army special forces officer, and the CEO of The World War II Foundation.
The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.
Uncommon Knowledge
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
