Get knee deep into history on the beaches of Normandy! In planning since 1942, the Allied landings on the beaches of Normandy would go down as the largest amphibious invasion ever attempted. The first-day landings alone would involve three American infantry and two airborne divisions, three British infantry divisions and one airborne division, two Canadian infantry divisions, and thousands of specialized units. This does not even consider the naval vessels or aircraft involved.
In spite of overwhelming numbers, success was far from insured—Field Marshall Erwin Rommel, who became General Inspector of the Western Defenses in November 1943, embarked upon a rapid expansion and strengthening of the Atlantic Wall. There was also the risk that German intelligence would discover the plan.
In hindsight, it is easy to see that weather, Allied boldness, and deception won the day. Nevertheless, the Allied hold on Northern France remained tenuous until the Allied breakouts in July. This KDIH tour will focus on each of the five landing beaches as well as the airborne drop zones.
Price is per person based on double occupancy.
Pick-up at CDG at 12:00pm. Drive to Normandy. Evening briefing followed by an introductory dinner. Hotel TBD.
Note: Pick-up and return point for this tour will be CDG Airport. A specific meeting point will be provided later. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the meeting point. Participants with their own vehicles can arrange to meet us at an alternate location.