America on French Soil: The Normandy Experience
Bonjour mes amis,
No matter how many times you go, no matter with whom, no matter the time of year or the weather, the moment you stand on Pointe du Hoc or Omaha Beach or stroll the solemn rows of graves at the American Cemetery in Normandy, you are overcome with awe, pride, sadness, humility, and a deep sense that you are touching a moment in history unsurpassed by any other. The graves of the unknown soldiers “Known only by God” will rip out your heart.
We have been to Normandy 6 times and each time is distinctly special. Yesterday was the first time during quite cold, rainy weather which seemed to etch the challenges of the battle into our very soul. When you see those cliffs mounted by 18 and 19-year old Rangers, you will never forget the greatest generation of men who risked everything for freedom from an evil force that was raping our world.
Our day began with an early train ride to Caen where we rented a car and made the relatively short drive to the area. Many think that Normandy is one place but it’s really a region accessible by car as you move from spot to spot. It cannot be done on foot. Riding though the tiny rues of the villages is part of the experience and oh, the beautiful hedgerow which challenged the American invasion is something to behold. If you don’t know about the hedgerow, read your history!
All of us (save Bernie) took these photos. Just as the train was leaving the station, Bernie turned to me and said, “I don’t have the chip in my camera. You forgot to put it back!” You don’t really want to hear the rest of that conversation!
Hope you enjoy the photos and can share in the experience of Normandy.
Paula and Tim were awed and had a moving experience, despite the chilly weather and some rain. I couldn’t help but remember other visits with other dear people in our lives…my son and his family, Charles and Judy Gattis, Johnny and Sharon Tyson and Jodie and Dennis Clements.
If you ever get a chance, go to the Normandy area!
Have a lovely day!
L & B
October 16, 2019 @ 11:19 am
Linda, What an amazingly moving post you have today with a bit of unexpected humor about the camera chip, Thank you for sharing your time and the touching experience. Enjoy your travel and stay safe.
October 16, 2019 @ 3:41 pm
This reply is to all of you who took the time to leave comments on our blog. It’s very encouraging to get your feedback!
October 16, 2019 @ 11:32 am
Sometimes a day without a camera is more meaningful.
October 16, 2019 @ 11:42 am
Thank you for sharing your experiences and the photos. Sorry the weather wasn’t better, but it looks like you made do with the conditions.
October 16, 2019 @ 11:57 am
This was certainly a sobering experience for us last year as we walked the D-Day battlegrounds and remembered all the men who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. I cannot imagine what those 18 and 19 year old “kids” thought as they landed and faced the might of Nazi Germany!!!! They were ( and continue to be ) “The Greatest Generation”.
October 16, 2019 @ 12:00 pm
Thanks again for taking us. Such a special place. BTW, I really like your hat; looks so very French. See you in a week or so.
October 16, 2019 @ 12:13 pm
Thank you Linda for your pictures and narrative of Normandy. I could feel the emotion in your words. We were there a couple of years ago and it was a very somber and moving day. It was good to revisit it there today with you.
I agree, if you get a chance, go there.
October 16, 2019 @ 12:23 pm
Your narrative is spot on. My first visit there was only 20 years after the invasion. Very moving.
October 16, 2019 @ 12:47 pm
Linda thanks for the marvelous pictures. I have been to Normandy many times myself and to the cemetery and it always brings me to tears. So glad Paula and Tim could be there to experience it with you and Bernie.
October 16, 2019 @ 1:09 pm
With tears in my eyes, I feel almost as if I have been there. Thank you for sharing your experience and your beautiful pictures.
October 16, 2019 @ 1:45 pm
Thanks for another visit to Normandy. It never loses its impact.
October 16, 2019 @ 2:07 pm
Wonderful photos!
October 16, 2019 @ 4:46 pm
It was truly a moving experience. While we were there a family was laying flowers on the grave of a relative after a brief service. Then we were awed as we heard the Star Spangled Banner playing. The day certainly renewed our pride in our country and the service of those young men and women.
October 17, 2019 @ 12:39 pm
Thank you for sharing your day—-certainly can cause a somber time of awe, reverence for life and reflection! Many unsung heroes is The Greatest Generation!