Remembering Valor: Cabbage Patch Square and the Battle of Carentan

U.S. and allied forces, World War II veterans and guests participate in the Cabbage Patch Memorial Ceremony in Carentan, France, June 2, 2023. The Cabbage Patch Square is where 79 years ago, U.S. paratroopers began the bloody, close combat battle to liberate the city of Carentan.

Preserving the Legacy of Heroism in the Heart of Normandy

Nestled in the historic region of Normandy, France, lies a place of profound significance - Cabbage Patch Square. This small square holds great historical importance as it was the site of intense fighting during the Battle of Carentan, a pivotal moment in World War II. Today, Cabbage Patch Square stands as a living testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought to liberate Europe.

The Battle of Carentan, which took place from June 10 to June 15, 1944, was a critical engagement between American paratroopers and German forces during the larger Normandy Campaign. Carentan, a strategic town situated between Utah Beach and Omaha Beach, held immense value in securing the Allied foothold in Normandy.

Cabbage Patch Square, located at the heart of Carentan, was an essential objective for both sides during the battle. It was named after the nearby Cabbage Patch Farm, which became a significant rallying point for American forces. The square itself became a key focal point of intense combat as American paratroopers, specifically the 101st Airborne Division, valiantly defended their positions against determined German resistance.

The battle for Cabbage Patch Square was characterized by fierce street-to-street fighting, with American soldiers engaged in close-quarter combat against well-entrenched German defenders. The square became a symbol of the valor and determination displayed by the American forces as they sought to secure Carentan and maintain the momentum of the D-Day invasion.

Today, Cabbage Patch Square serves as a poignant memorial to the soldiers who fought and fell during the Battle of Carentan. The square's significance lies not only in its historical context but also in its role as a gathering place for remembrance and reflection. Visitors can explore the square and its surrounding areas, retracing the footsteps of those who fought bravely in defense of freedom.

The square itself bears witness to the scars of war, with plaques and memorials commemorating the sacrifices made by both American and German forces. These tributes serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance of cherishing peace.

Adjacent to Cabbage Patch Square is the Carentan War Museum, which offers a deeper understanding of the Battle of Carentan and its impact on the local community. The museum showcases artifacts, exhibits, and personal stories that provide a comprehensive view of the battle and the experiences of those involved. It stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring legacy of those who fought.

Visiting Cabbage Patch Square and the Carentan War Museum allows visitors to connect with the past, paying homage to the sacrifices made by the soldiers who fought for freedom. It is a solemn reminder of the bravery and selflessness that shaped the course of history.

The preservation of Cabbage Patch Square and the efforts to honor the memory of the Battle of Carentan are a testament to the enduring gratitude and respect held by the local community and beyond. Events and ceremonies held at the square serve as a unifying force, bringing together people from different nations to remember and honor the sacrifices of the past.

As time passes, it becomes increasingly important to preserve and share the stories of the Battle of Carentan and the significance of Cabbage Patch Square. By doing so, we ensure that the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought will never be forgotten, and that the lessons learned from this pivotal moment in history continue to guide us towards a future of peace and understanding.

 In the heart of Normandy, Cabbage Patch Square stands as a living testament to the valor and resilience displayed during the Battle of Carentan. It is a place where history comes alive, inspiring us to remember, reflect, and appreciate the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom. Let us honor their memory and strive for a world where conflicts are resolved through dialogue and understanding.

Combat King II

Air Force personnel jump out of an HC-130J Combat King II during training over Djibouti, May 9, 2023.

Former U.S. Air Force Officer Sentenced: Unveiling the Breach of National Security Secrets

Former U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, Robert L. Birchum, was sentenced to three years in federal prison and fined $25,000 by U.S. District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle in Tampa, FL. Birchum pleaded guilty to unlawfully possessing and retaining classified documents related to national defense on February 21, 2023.

During his 29-year career in the Air Force, Birchum held various intelligence positions, working with classified information for prominent agencies such as the Joint Special Operations Command and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Despite having entered into agreements to protect classified information, Birchum violated these obligations.

In 2017, law enforcement discovered that Birchum had knowingly taken over 300 classified files and documents, including more than 30 labeled as Top Secret, from authorized locations. He stored these materials in unauthorized places such as his home, overseas officer's quarters, and a storage pod in his driveway. Among the confiscated items were two documents on a thumb drive found at Birchum's residence, containing sensitive information about the National Security Agency's capabilities, collection methods, and vulnerabilities of targets. Both documents were classified as Top Secret/SCI, and their unauthorized release posed a grave threat to national security.

U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg emphasized the serious risk that Birchum's actions posed to national security, thanking law enforcement partners for their commitment to safeguarding the nation. FBI Tampa Special Agent in Charge David Walker highlighted the FBI's dedication to protecting the secrets of the U.S. Intelligence community and ensuring the security of the country.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cherie L. Krigsman of the Middle District of Florida, along with Trial Attorney Evan N. Turgeon from the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, prosecuted the case.

This sentencing serves as a reminder of the government's determination to pursue individuals who knowingly endanger national security and the critical importance of upholding classified information protocols.