My husband and I had been planning our trip to France for months. The highlight was to be a tour of the Normandy D-Day beaches and especially the American Cemetery. That was to take place Tuesday, and you can imagine our disappointment when we learned the cemetery was closed because of the U.S. government shutdown. More than likely, we will not be able to return for another visit.

However, as I toured the landing beaches and heard the stories of unsurpassed bravery of the young American men who worked together and so valiantly sacrificed their lives to liberate a country not even their own, I couldn't help contrasting them with members of Congress who are interested only in winning the next election and in taking down the other party so their own ideals prevail.

I do not see much in the way of Congress working together for the good of our own country. I think it is time for both parties to come together to once again make this country great as it once was, and if they won't, it is time to elect people who will.

SHERRY SHEAHAN, Minneapolis