ANNIVERSARY – AT 9:28 A.M. ET:  In two days we will observe the 70th anniversary of D-Day, the invasion of Normandy in northern France, which led to the eventual downfall of Hitler's Germany.

But let us not forget another anniversary.  It was 70 years ago today that allied forces liberated Rome, part of the campaign in Italy that led to the defeat of the Mussolini regime.  Veterans of Rome have always felt a bit cheated because their accomplishment, after weeks of bitter fighting, was immediately overshadowed by Normandy.

So let us remember the bitter Italian campaign, which was marked by historic battles with names like Anzio and Monte Cassino.  The troops who liberated Italy paid a heavy price, and their contribution to ultimate victory was second to none. 

June 4, 2014