June 06, 2004

Ronald Reagan, R.I.P.

Here's one way to remember Ronald Reagan:

And here's another:

The first picture is Reagan as the embodiment of America. He's weathered, a man who's been working on his land. He looks like he's had his share of a good day's work. The denim jacket is like what you'd see anybody in the West wearing. The grin on his face is that of the optimist. He's a man who looks at the bright side of events and people. Reagan lifted America's spirits when it needed it the most.

The second picture shows Reagan's playful side. He never took himself too seriously. The times he made a self-deprecating remark are legion.

Like all people, Ronald Reagan was more complicated than these two pictures suggest. But they are iconic of Reagan as ordinary American and jovial soul.

Today is the 60th anniversary of the D-Day invasion. To honor Reagan and the men who risked their lives to save civilization read Reagan's speeches he gave at the 40th anniversary.

"Remarks at a Ceremony Commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the Normandy Invasion, D-Day (Pointe De Hoc)"

"Remarks at a United States-France Ceremony Commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the Normandy Invasion, D-Day"