Brian and I have been wanting to go to Normandy, France for quite some time. Our main purpose for this trip was to visit the cemetaries from World War II. I was very moved by this experience, much more than I expected. I just kept thinking of the chaos and the fear of so many young boys and men. I wept for the many mothers and wives and children who loved, honored and supported such brave soldiers. It was overwhelming to stand amid the thousands of headstones, and think of the loss and the struggle. I want to be more grateful for the precious freedoms these men purchased with their lives.
American Cemetary in Brittany, over 4000 soldiers.
British Cemetary, about 3500 soldiers, including some German soldiers. Each family was allowed to have an inscription printed on the grave, and the ages were listed as well.
American Cemetary, Omaha Beach. Over 9000 soldiers.
Omaha Beach, looking down on the beach from the cemetary. This was where the troups landed, and had to struggle uphill to where the enemy was stationed on the high ground, up above the thick foliage and undergrowth. Not an easy victory by any means.
On the beach.
WHO ARE THESE MEN ?
Who are these men who march so proud,
Who quietly weep, eyes closed, head bowed?
These are the men who once were boys,
Who missed out on youth and all it's joys.
Who are these men with aged faces,
Who silently count the empty spaces?
These are the men who gave their all,
Who fought for their country for freedom for all.
Who are these men with sorrowful look
Who can still remember the lives that were took?
These are the men who saw young men die,
The price of peace is always high.
Who are these men who in the midst of pain,
Whispered comfort to those they would not see again?
These are the men whose hands held tomorrow,
Who brought back our future with blood tears and sorrow.
Who are these men who promise to keep
Alive in their hearts the ones God holds asleep?
These are the men to whom I promise again:
'Veterans',my friends-I will remember them!
(Anonymous 1966)
5 comments:
All your little trips are so fascinating! This one to Normandy would have been pretty emotional for me. I have been very interested in WW2 for years and have read a lot about it.
Hey there Kamber! I found your blog through Kerri's Blog. It is great to see your blog and read what you have been up to. I will have to keep checking back. :)
Fantastic pictures, Kam!! Thanks for taking the time to put 'em up for us. I'm sure your dad would LOVE to go there and maybe we CAN someday--with you and Brian, eh?? Love, Mom
Wonderful photos and moving commentary about such sacred ground. I recall what President Clinton said about D-Day veterans on 50th anniversary in '94: "They may walk with a little less spring in their step, and their ranks are growing thinner, but let us never forget...when they were young...
these men saved the world." Have to see Normandy some day. Glad you made time to go there.--timo
Kam - What a great way to celebrate and pay tribute to the
4th. Awesome
Kerri
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