We can't let it fade away. A nation can't forget its history. This is why it is so important that generations now alive and those to come learn about World War II and the many battles fought to win victory for democracy. They must understand the importance of that mantle that must be passed from one generation to another if we are to remain free. The year 1944 was one of climatic battles which opened the Road to Victory with Germany's surrender, V-E Day, and the final surrender of Japan in 1945.
Commemorations are for the living.
They remind us of our link to the past. They enable present generations to pause and reflect on the momentous events that have gone before us, changed our history, and shaped our world. It was not to spotlight a President or government leader, but to pay homage and honor the selfless dedication of the generation that literally saved mankind and changed the course of human history. Give up their youth, stand up to incredible odds, endure horrendous hardships impossible to imagine, give their lives so generations afterwards could live free. Theirs was selfless service.