Normandy - Day Three

[smallhobbit]

The third day we looked at the campaign after D-Day itself.  The pictures below are more a reflection on the trip, rather than things which relate specifically to the day.

In tribute to those from many countries who died during the battles, here are a number of gravestones in remembrance:

       

     

 

Looking over the countryside now, you would never know that it had been the sign of intense battles:





The small towns, although catering mainly for tourists who are visiting because of the D-Day connections, in some ways are no different from any other small French town.



My father was serving in the navy, and after a bit or research I found a photo (Imperial War Museum) of the ship he was on at the time. 



It was a very interesting tour, and one which I am still processing parts of now.  There is much yet to learn.

Comments

[verdande_mi]

I have just caught up on your Normandy posts. Sounds like a wonderful tour! Thanks for sharing. The history of the Norwegian Merchant Fleet during WW2 is a really interesting one. My grandfather sailed on different merchant ships during the war and he never spoke of it afterards, it was too horrible for him. He wasn't at Normandy though.

[smallhobbit]

It was fascinating. I'm sure the history of the Norwegian Fleet must be very interesting. My Dad rarely spoke about his time in the navy - although he did say he missed D-Day because his ship broke down, so they played cricket.

[adafrog]

Thanks.
Yeah, those fields that are absolutely normal now, but just a few decades ago were places of horror are upsetting. I think it's kind of like a sunny day during a funeral.

[smallhobbit]

It also shows how creation redeems what man destroys, which is positive.

[rusty_armour]

It's great that you were able to find a photo of the ship that your dad served on. From what I've heard, very few people are/were willing to discuss their experiences during the war -- not that I blame them.

Thanks for sharing pictures of gravestones from the different countries (including Canada) that were involved in WWII.

You took some beautiful pictures of the countryside. It is hard to believe that intense battles were fought in such places considering how peaceful and idyllic they look today.

[smallhobbit]

It took me a while to find the photo - but I was pleased when I did.

The Canadians played a major role in WWII - and are particularly remembered at Juno Beach.

It's really hard to imagine what the countryside must have looked like at the time, it's so beautiful now.

[debriswoman]

Such contrasts. Thank you.

[smallhobbit]

Yes, and a clear indication that life will, somehow, go on.