Staff Sergeant Charles Klein served in the Army Rangers during the invasion of Normandy. He commanded a section of riflemen, and as a member of the 5th Ranger Battalion, he was one of the first units to land at Omaha beach that day.

In this interview, S/Sgt. Klein recounts his training, D-Day, and being sent home after being wounded in action. 

He also shares something a fellow lieutenant said in the months following the invasion:

“He thought for a while, and he said, ‘Lieutenant,’ he says, ‘I don't mind fighting for my country.’ He said, ‘It's a dying part I don't like.’ So I guess that about sums it up.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices