Bicycle is a marvelous pace to witness things. It was hard to imagine that so much bloodshed took place amidst a tranquil and scenic landscape.

Small white crosses are scattered all over the seaside landscape. The French have done a nice job maintaining the dignity of the region.

When we arrived at Omaha Beach, I broke down sobbing upon realizing the harrowing predicament of the American forces trying to breach the cliffs, which required navigating through the German interlocking lines of machine gun fire -- a wall of bullets covering every angle. The battle plans were designed where human survival required going forward. Retreat to the sea or lolly gagging on the beach = death.

The highlight of the day was having lunch with Andre Heintz -- who was with the French Resistance and communicated with the Allies via a vegetable can he converted to a radio. Fascinating man. Died in 2017 at age 97.

So much courage by so many.

Thanks for the post.


Link: https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/video/60th-anniversary-memorial-reunion-itnfrance-normandy-news-footage/949006546