06/06/2026
🇺🇸 Remembering D-Day 🇺🇸
Today I'm honoring my grandfather, John R. Horlacher, a World War II veteran whose courage helped shape our family's story.
At just 24 years old, Grandpa landed in Europe during one of the most significant military operations in history. He often said a lucky break was the reason he survived. During the brutal fighting that followed D-Day, he watched as members of his squad were lost one by one. By D-Day plus 40, only he and one other soldier remained from their original squad.
A transfer to division headquarters likely saved his life.
"I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for that," he said.
After serving for 2 years, 9 months, and 27 days, Grandpa came home to Arvin, California, to his wife, Dee. Together they raised a family, and he built the home where many of our family memories were made. He worked as a maintenance mechanic, loved spending time fishing, and lived a quiet life marked by hard work and dedication.
Looking back on the war, he believed deeply in the sacrifices made by his generation and the importance of standing against tyranny.
Today, I remember not only the soldier who served his country, but the husband, father, grandfather, fisherman, and builder who created a legacy that lives on through all of us.
Thank you for your service, Grandpa. We will never forget. ❤️🇺🇸🎣
