On the road to History

Each year around 6th June, the holiday destination of Bayeux - Bessin - D-Day beaches becomes the scene for many events and festivities in commemoration of the Battle of Normandy. The military cemetery of Colleville-sur-mer, American territory in the heart of Bessin, welcomes over a million visitors each year and is a key site on this historical journey.

In the days following the landings of 6th June 1944, temporary cemeteries were created near the beaches. A simple cross, made with planks of wood, or a stake topped by a helmet indicated the presence of a soldier. Today, almost 100 000 men of thirteen different nationalities rest in Normandy. 

In 1947, the historical site of Omaha Beach in Colleville-sur-Mer was chosen to become a permanent burial ground. The military cemetery is run by the American Battlefield and Monuments Commission (ABMC), and stretches over 70 hectares of land, overlooking Bloody Omaha Beach. It is a place of glory and serenity. The architecture is characterized by an effect of perspective: the vast carpet of greenery is studded with impeccably aligned white steles.

Of the 9387 American soldiers buried in Colleville, 3 received the Medal of Honor, 4 are women and 307 remain unidentified. Fathers, sons and brothers rest side-by-side, as is the case for the Roosevelt brothers (one died in July 1918, the other in July 1944) or the Arruda brothers, who landed side by side on the morning of 6^th June and were killed by a land-mine. The tragic destiny of the Niland brothers, also buried in Colleville, inspired Steven Spielberg for his movie "Saving Private Ryan".

As you come out of the cemetery, you will notice a pink granite slab upon which is engraved "To be opened June 6, 2044". Embedded in the lawn is a time capsule, engraved in the memory of General Eisenhower and the forces under his command. The sealed capsule contains news reports announcing the Normandy landings of 6th June 1944.

Memorial Day commemorates American men and women who died in military service. This tribute is also observed each year at the cemetery of Colleville sur Mer, on the last Sunday of May. During the memorial service, American and French flags are placed side-by-side at the foot of each stele.

More info:
American Battlefield and Monuments Commission
www.abmc.gov

Events around 6th of June:
D-Day Festival Normandy 2010

Association Les Fleurs de la Mémoire
http://fleursdelamemoire.free.fr/