Normandy Tour
The Normandy Landings in June 1944 signified a major turning point in World War II and in those dark days gave hope to millions that Europe would eventually be liberated. D-Day – or 'Operation Overlord' – was an extremely large and complex undertaking. The successful coordination of American, British, Canadian and Free French Airborne troops, as well as the landing of infantry and armoured divisions, remains one of the greatest victories in history and the largest invasion of troops by sea.
Highlights
- Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword Beaches where the troops landed.
- Airborne drop zones.
- Military cemeteries including St. Laurent sur Mer and Ranville.
- Arromanches to see the artificial harbours built by the Allies after D-Day.
- Saint Mere Eglise, the famous 13th Century church with the Airborne stained glass windows.
- Pegasus Bridge, named after the emblem worn by the British airborne forces that defended the bridge and Pegasus Museum.
- Brécourt Manor, captured by Company E of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, as seen in the popular TV series, Band of Brothers.
- 1944 Normandy Museum or Bayeux Tapestry.
- Gondree Café (the first liberated building).
Photo credits:
Slideshow: American Cemetery; cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach; Dakotas flying over Normandy.
Photos to the right of the tour: Omaha Beach.
