Dwight D. Eisenhower (1890-1969) Turning to politics in 1952, Eisenhower proved to be a successful commander in that field also. After winning the Republican nomination for president he overwhelmingly defeated the Democratic candidate, Adlai E. Stevenson. He thus became the 34th president of the United States and the first Republican president in 20 years.
Soldiers, sailors, and airmen of the Allied Expeditionary Force, you are about to embark upon the great crusade towards which we have striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you, the hopes and prayers oi liberty-loving people everywhere march with you.
In company with our brave allies and brothers in arms on other fronts, you will bring about the destruction of the German war machine. The e1imination of Nazi t3'ranny over the oppressed people of Europe, and security for ourselves in a free world. Your task will not be an easy one. Your enemy is wel1-trained, wel1-equipped, and battle-hardened. He will fight savagely But this is the year 1944, 1nuch has happened since the Nazi triumphs of 1940, 41. The united nations have inflicted upon the Germans great defeats in open battle, men to men. Our air offenses have seriously reduced their strength in the air and their capacity to wage war on the ground. Our
home fronts have given us an overwhelming superiority in weapons and ammunitions of wan and placed at our disposal, great reserves of trained fighting men. The tide has turned, the free men of the world are marching together to victory
I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full victory Good luck and let us all beseech the blessing of almighty God upon this great and noble undertaking.