Hixon Paratrooper Tribute: Normandy 80th

In the vast tapestry of history, there are moments that define the essence of courage, sacrifice, and the unyielding spirit of humanity. The 80th anniversary of D-Day stands as a solemn reminder of such a time, a day when thousands leaped into the unknown for the greater good. This year, we, the Hixon family, embark on a journey of remembrance, honor, and education. A journey back to the hallowed grounds of Normandy, where history was written in the skies and on the beaches below.

My husband, Robert Hixon, is heartbeat of our mission- a testament to the spirit of those historic days. Having served as a paratrooper in 1998 and now a proud member of several jump teams, he is set to carry forward the legacy of those who dared to leap into darkness for freedom. Alongside the Liberty Jump Team, he will partake in five jumps, each a tribute to the bravery, the sacrifice, and the spirit of the Allied forces who fought on that fateful day in 1944.

Our connection to World War II is deeply personal, etched into our family's history. In our history Rob's grandfather, Robert James Beck, served as a medic, threading life back into the fabric of the front lines, while my grandfather, Rutherford McKinley Shetter played a crucial role in laying the communication lines in the war effort. Both of our girls are named after these war heroes and wear their name with pride. This trip is our homage to them, a bridge between the past and present, ensuring their stories and the stories of many like them are not forgotten.

This journey to Normandy is more than a series of commemorative jumps for us; it's an educational adventure. We aim to soak in every lesson that history has to offer, to understand the depth of sacrifice made by the generations before us. And we're committed to sharing these learnings far and wide — with coworkers, in schools, and across social media — spreading the stories of valor and sacrifice that shaped our world.

Your support will help make this pilgrimage a reality. It will enable Rob to stand among his brothers and sisters in arms, honoring the past through the act of remembrance. It will allow our family, including Ayla, to grow, learn, and subsequently share these invaluable lessons with our community and beyond.

Funds raised will go towards travel expenses, accommodations, and other logistical aspects of participating in the ceremonies and jumps with the Liberty Jump Team. But more than that, your contribution will support the preservation of history and the education of future generations about the importance of remembering our past.

Join the Hixon family as we leap into history, honor the legacy of those who gave everything for freedom, and bring back their stories to light the path for the future. Your support means the world to us and to the memory of the heroes of D-Day.

"Let us never forget that freedom isn't free — it's a legacy handed down with responsibility and gratitude. Thank you for helping the Hixon family keep this legacy alive."