“This operation is not being planned with any alternatives. This operation is planned as a victory, and that’s the way it’s going to be. We’re going down there, and we’re throwing everything we have into it, and we’re going to make it a success.”

General Dwight D. Eisenhower

Seventy five years ago today the largest seaborne military operation in history was taking place. I can’t begin to imagine what the young men who were preparing to jump out of airplanes or run off their landing craft onto the beaches were feeling and thinking. They were part of a great fight against evil and tyranny but I am sure most of them were simply thinking of their loved ones back home and praying for survival. They were all scared and ready to get it over with.

I am a huge history buff and have read dozens of books on the second world war and about D-Day specifically. The level of courage this entire generation displayed on that day, and throughout the entire second world war is incredible. They were committed to doing something because it was right, not because they themselves were going to get something from it, nor because our country was seeking power and domination. They did what had to be done. And on this morning seventy five years ago, they made history and forever changed the world. Thank you to the greatest generation for making these past seventy five years possible.

There is something special about the commitment it takes to embark on a plan and set out with 100% commitment to success. No alternatives, no room for failure. Simply the intense focus on getting it done, no matter what. How often in life do we approach any challenge with this degree of commitment or resolve? What would we do differently if we did?