Nothing can really prepare you for the 9,500 or so graves you encounter at Normandy. On June 6, 1945 the invasion of Allied forces against the Nazis was a remarkable victory that forever changed the world and saved Europe from the scourge of Communism and brought about the defeat of the German forces. It was a choreographed and synchronized military operation that cost thousands of allied lives but gave the world the gift of freedom and democracy that we remain ever grateful for. The deep appreciation and somber respect for what happened on these beaches is evident in the tangible signs of prayers, flower memorials, rituals, and searches for loved ones who served and died for the protection of freedom and liberty. In a world which can take freedom so easily for granted this is a place of honor and gratitude for those who made it possible and gave their very lives to insure that we continue to live today the values and ideals they fought for. We walked along Omaha Beach and then visited the remnants of German bunkers which were built by French citizens recruited by the Nazi as forced laborers, most of whom were conscripted to support the Nazi regime under penalty of punishment or death.
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