Visit to Normandy Pt 3: D-Day beaches, cemeteries, and the Mémorial de Caen

Our last day in Normandy was a somber one, as we reflected on the sacrifices of those who gave their lives on June 6, 1944 (and the following days and months) to rid the world of the Nazi threat.  We had learned about the American (and Canadian and British) role on D-Day before arriving (and many knew quite a bit from their history classes), and the students took their time in the museums and memorial sites and seemed deep in contemplation about that time and the fate of soldiers not much older than themselves.  We were very proud of them for showing respect and approaching each site with a spirit of reflection.  

We stopped for a brief visit at the church across the street from our hostel before heading out. 


 

Here are some photos from the American cemetery, a beautiful and peaceful resting place.









 It's hard to describe the difference in ambiance between the German and American cemeteries.  Below, the German cemetery.


We also visited the Pointe du Hoc, a site that was liberated by American rangers literally scaling the cliffs to disarm the enemy.  


Our last stop of the day was the Mémorial de Caen, a city devastated by the war that now is home to a beautifully designed museum about the World War II era.  Following our visit, we enjoyed birthday cake to celebrate two birthdays that happened this week.  😀




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