The next day, we spent on the beaches themselves. It was really amazing to see what was left. There were the German batteries, some with guns and camoflage netting still intact. There were all the craters left from the Allied bombings before the troops came ashore. We spent some time at the American Cemetary at Omaha, which was very moving. Each of our children wandered until they found a marker which spoke to them in some way. They then thanked that soldier by name for his sacrifice. I hope it helped them understand what had happened there at least a little. We then walked down to the beach itself and splashed and marveled at what had been done. Ethan timed himself running from the waterline up to the treeline--it took him about 1 min 20 seconds, and that was without full combat gear and an 80 pound pack. It is a miracle that the mission succeeded. Kent, Ethan, and I had all read books about D-Day, which helped us understand the 18-month to 2 year prep time of Operation Overlord. Being there and standing on that soil made it very real.
On our final day, we stopped in Bayeux to view the famous tapestry telling the story of William the Conqueror. It is a really stunning achievement. So huge, so detailed, and so clear in the story telling. We took the audio guide which walked us through each panel, detailing the story and pointing out all the handiwork. Madeleine had studied this is Host Nation last year, so it was especially cool for her to see it up close (well, behind glass but close!).
We then headed back across the tunnel and home. It was a great trip.
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