It was a cool, windy day in March. But the skies were clear and the cliffs overlooking the English Channel provided stunning panoramic views of the Normandy coast. There were no crowds which made our visit almost serene. One would not describe the setting so kindly seventy-five years ago as the remnants of German defenses at Pointe du Hoc reminded us. We stared at the cliffs in disbelief that anyone would try to scale them at all, let alone under heavy fire. A recent article in the Washington Post, sheds light on whether this part of the D-Day attack was necessary as archaeologists and historians uncover more from another site three miles up the road called “The Maisy Battery“. Whatever the outcome, one thing remains certain. The men who fought along the Normandy beaches that day showed amazing courage as they stared at the challenge before them.
“Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of readiness to die.” –G.K. Chesterton
We often rely on written words, pictures, film, and our imagination to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes in another time. I read about the D-Day invasion in my U.S. History class and saw the film Saving Private Ryan. Seeing the artillery guns and barbed wire that stared down soldiers climbing the cliffs at Pointe du Hoc, the long stretch of wide open beach at Omaha, and rows of crosses in the U.S. cemetery enhanced my understanding of the gravity and significance of June 6, 1944. It was an experience that came with feelings of sadness, loss, amazement, and gratitude for those who risked their lives and paid the ultimate price for our freedom.
“The brave die never, though they sleep in dust, their courage nerves a thousand living men” -Minot J. Savage
If you’re ever able to travel to Normandy, I highly recommend visiting the landing beaches and memorial museums. Travel can open doors, offer new experiences, challenge established beliefs, or give renewed meaning to our history. I’m thankful for this travel experience and the time to pause, reflect, and be ever thankful for the sacrifices made that day.
Planning a trip to Normandy? As a Fora Travel advisor I’d love to help =)
