Yesterday marked the 75th anniversary of D-Day, when in 1944 the United States and the Allies invaded the beaches of Normandy to begin the liberation of France and end the European theater of World War II. It's a day of remembrance; a time to reflect and honor those who serve today and have served our country to protect our liberties and freedoms.

A few days before, the Idaho Lottery had the opportunity to honor a United States military veteran when he claimed the first top prize on the 30th Anniversary $30 Scratch Game. Kenneth Grubb arrived in Boise with his two granddaughters to claim a $300,000 prize Monday.

Grubb, who served twenty years in the United States Army and fought in both Korea and Vietnam, was about as thrilled as an individual could be to win. "Wow-we!" he exclaimed when he was handed his winning check.

A regular player, Grubb got his ticket on Sunday from the Oasis on Washington and Addison, one of his favorite retail stores in Twin Falls. After scratching the ticket, he didn't really believe he'd won all that money. So he called his oldest granddaughter and said he needed to go over and have her check something. She looked at it with him, then the two took the ticket to the store to verify it. The clerk told them it needed to be claimed at the Lottery in Boise.

Overwhelmed a bit by the experience, Grubb didn't specify what he would do with his winnings. He just knows he can add Lottery winner to his list of worthy, life-long accomplishments.

On behalf of the Idaho Lottery, Mr. Grubb, we'd like to thank you for your service to our country and congratulate you with your $300,000 winning check!