Kirk Herbstreit didn’t need many words to make an impact on Friday morning. As millions around the world paused to honor the 81st anniversary of D-Day, the longtime ESPN college football analyst shared a heartfelt message that struck a chord far beyond the world of sports.
“81 years ago. UNCOMMON VALOR! We should never forget this day and the men that stormed these beaches,” Herbstreit wrote on X. “Forever grateful!!”
His words came with a sense of clarity, carrying the weight of history and a deep respect for those who fought and fell on June 6, 1944.
Remembering Real Heroes
Herbstreit’s tribute arrived on a day when many took time to reflect on the immense sacrifice made during the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied France. Known as D-Day, the operation marked a turning point in World War II. According to official estimates, over 4,400 Allied troops lost their lives on that single day. The broader Battle of Normandy claimed the lives of more than 73,000 from the Allied side.
81 years ago-UNCOMMON VALOR!
— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) June 6, 2025
We should never forget this day and the men that stormed these beaches! Forever grateful!! pic.twitter.com/q6mnagITfZ
Lt. Gen. Jason T. Hinds of U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa offered a moving reflection as well. “The heroism, honor and sacrifice of the Allied forces on D-Day will always resonate with the U.S. Armed Forces and our Allies and partners across Europe,” Hinds said. “Let us ensure that their sacrifice was not in vain by meeting today’s challenges with the same resolve, the same clarity of purpose, and the same commitment to freedom.”
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NCAA stories via Google! Follow Us
Herbstreit’s post quickly gained traction online, with users echoing his sentiments. “This ultimately saved the oppression and killing of many people. Thank you to the veterans then, and their families, and the veterans now,” one person replied.
🇺🇸🇬🇧🏴🏴🇮🇪🇨🇦
— Shawn Aubin (@coach_aubin17) June 6, 2025
This ultimately saved the oppression, and killing, of many people.
Thank you to the veterans then, and their families, and the veterans now. What you do is greatly appreciated. https://t.co/AtQRNBgukX
Another called those involved “the greatest generation to ever live.”
The greatest generation to ever live. Forever grateful. https://t.co/1doG9vJx9k
— Don Ravasio (@DonRavasio) June 6, 2025
Though known for breaking down college football matchups, Herbstreit has never shied away from speaking on matters that carry real-world weight. His D-Day message served as a reminder that gratitude, especially for those who risked everything, still holds strong power in 2025.
Also Read: Kirk Herbstreit Delivers Very Disturbing News Involving Ohio State Football Superstar
