Barry Smith

Powerful Photo

The picture above depicts U.S. troops arriving at the shores of Normandy, France on June 6, 1944 (also known as D-Day). In the foreground of the photo, the backs of the soldiers can be seen, as they exit the vehicle that transported all of them. They are wading through the ocean water to storm the shore. Each soldier carries a ruck, or heavy bag of war and survival gear, on his back, and is accompanied by a rifle. In the depths of the photo, a battleground can be seen. The horizon is littered with dead bodies, which most likely lay adjacent to a large trench. As one looks at the image, it comes to life. The photo is from World War II, before the times of color cameras. As such, the image is gray, and this gives it an overall grim portrayal.

The soldiers are embarking on what could be their death, landing on unfamiliar land and having to wade through unknown waters to reach it. To their backs, their vessel rests, having completed its job to provide them transportation to the battle. As they proceed, they can squint to see the shore littered with dead bodies, too far to discern as friend or foe. There is smoke in the air, caused from bombs and gunshots. Yet despite this dark setting, the soldiers march on, because their resolve allows them to. Each man is surrounded by comrades, each ready to defend one another. With these things in mind and heart, they march on, towards what could be the greatest moment of their lives.

As I look at this photo, I gain a deep sense of respect and admiration. The scene the U.S. troops have arrived to is very dark, and the dead bodies are unpromising. If I were to be in that situation, I would be brave, and face the enemy fiercely. I respect the soldiers because it is no small feat to challenge another force to a battle to the death. My admiration of the soldiers is rooted in their unwavering determination to eradicate the enemy. A soldier could easily turn back and hide, yet each soldier is going forward. There is no sign of retreat or fear in the photo. This is key, as the resilience of the troops surface. The dead bodies, whilst an inevitable consequence of war, are very discouraging. This does not show in the soldiers, and instead is invoked in me, the viewer.

I chose this photo because it reflects a principle I value highly: valor. In times of war and crisis, the resolve of an individual is tested. Does one stand firm and kill or be killed, or does one tuck their tail between their legs and retreat to safety? This is the question that arises in the heads and hearts of all involved in a desperate situation. I have military lineage in my family, and this has instilled a certain respect for warriors in me. I admire them, and have always appreciated

Barry Smith

them for their service and sacrifice. It is not easy to give your life for others, to most people. The mere fact that this image pertained to war served as a major contribution to why I chose it. This photo stands to show us that men often give their lives to protect civilians and their nation’s rights. The image also conveys that each person has a duty to stare death in the face and mush onwards, as they have many others behind them.