May 24, 2024 (Tampa, FL) – As our nation pauses to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom on Memorial Day, Tours of Duty, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the search and recovery of Prisoners of War (POWs) and Missing in Action (MIAs), is proud to announce its participation in the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Invasion. This monumental event will see Tours of Duty actively participating in official ceremonies at the Brittany American Cemetery, the Normandy American Cemetery, and the official D-Day parade in St. Mere Eglise. Additionally, they will conduct a historic ruck march from Omaha Beach, sponsored by the 2nd Ranger Battalion.
World War II left 72,104 American service members unaccounted for, marking a solemn legacy of bravery and sacrifice that we remember especially on Memorial Day. The mission to bring these heroes home remains a profound national duty. Tours of Duty is committed to this cause, harnessing the expertise of veterans to locate and recover the remains of those who gave their lives for freedom. By doing so, they provide closure to families and honor the ultimate sacrifice made by these courageous individuals.
Highlighting the commemoration is the collaboration with the Tunison Foundation and their iconic warbird, Placid Lassie. This 1943 Douglas C-47 Skytrain, a flying museum, once played a pivotal role in World War II operations, including the D-Day Fleet, Operation Market Garden, and the Battle of the Bulge. As Placid Lassie flies over the Normandy terrain once again, it serves as a powerful reminder of the valor and dedication of the Greatest Generation.
“The 80th Anniversary of D-Day is a significant milestone,” said Amanda Rutledge, Founder and CEO of Tours of Duty. “We are honored to join forces with the Tunison Foundation and participate in these commemorative events, ensuring that the sacrifices of our POW/MIA service members are never forgotten, especially as we reflect on Memorial Day.”
Adding to the significance of this event is a unique partnership with the Tobacco Barn Distillery. Three barrels of bourbon, aptly named Omaha, Utah, and Pointe du Hoc, will be transported across the Atlantic by Placid Lassie, undergoing a distinctive aging process influenced by the aircraft’s journey. This innovative tribute not only honors the military heritage but also offers connoisseurs a unique taste of history.
“As we embark on our mission to honor the courage and sacrifice of our veterans, I am profoundly grateful to The Tobacco Barn Distillery and Rear Admiral Scott Sanders for their generous partnership,” said Rutledge. “The bourbon donated not only fuels our journey but symbolizes the spirit of camaraderie and remembrance that defines our collective mission. Together, we carry forward their legacy, ensuring they are never forgotten.”
Tours of Duty’s participation in the 80th D-Day Commemoration underscores their ongoing dedication to recovering POW/MIA service members and honoring their memory. Through partnerships, sponsorships, and the support of volunteers, they continue to bring closure to families and keep history alive.
For more information on Tours of Duty, partnership opportunities, and how to get involved, visit www.toursofduty.org or contact Paul Slough, Director of Outreach, at (940)-600-2275 or email p.slough@toursofduty.org.
About Tours of Duty: Tours of Duty is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to searching for and recovering POW/MIA personnel from past conflicts. Their mission is to honor the sacrifice of our Nation’s brave men and women who have been left behind on foreign soil, bringing closure to families and ensuring no one is forgotten.
Media Contact: Paul Slough
Director of Outreach, Tours of Duty
(940)-600-2275
p.slough@toursofduty.org
