Perhaps the most epic battle in the history of the world
took place starting in the early morning hours of June 6th, 1944. Preceded by a behind the lines
air assault by three Airborne Divisions, troops from the United States, Great
Britain, Canada, and the Free French landed on the beaches of Normandy,
supported by a bombardment by aircraft and a five thousand ship greatest fleet
ever assembled. After a day of heavy fighting and grievous casualties, the
allied armies obtained a foothold on the continent of Europe.
The end of the Nazi regime had begun.
The invasion beaches are readily accessible from the major
towns of Normandy. Of particular
interest is Omaha Beach,
scene of the heaviest fighting of the battle, with the German battery at
Longues sur Mer and the cliffs of Pointe du Huc, where American Rangers climbed
on ropes under murderous fire from the Germans to seize the heights. Nearby is
the American cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer where many who gave the last full
measure that day rest. Also, be sure to visit the museum at Arromanches.
Visiting Normandy
Normandy is
readily accessible from Paris by
rail or road. Destinations in the region, taken singularly, such as the
invasion beaches or Mont Saint Michel, can be done as a day trip from Paris,
but several days should be allocated to seeing the entire region.