During the second world war (WWII), much of Europe suffered significant damage, with Normandy experiencing particularly severe destruction. The landing of the Allies in Normandy marked a pivotal confrontation between the two warring factions, resulting in many casualties and widespread ruin.
As you journey through Normandy, the shadows of war are still present, whether through physical remnants like bunkers or through memorials honoring those who lost their lives.
Below is a brief overview of some WWII leftovers and monuments that can be seen in Normandy. They are listed in no particular order.
This is Part 4 of the 5 part series, and a link to Part 5 will be provided once it's published.
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Pegasus Bridge
During the invasion of Normandy, also known as D-Day, the capture of the two bridges in Benouville and neighboring Ranville was a strategic imperative for the Allied forces. These bridges were crucial to the liberation of France and the rest of Europe, and their loss could have meant failure or serious delay for the invasion. This operation was named Operation Deadstick.
The bridge at Benouville, originally known as the Caen Canal bridge, was subsequently renamed “Pegasus Bridge” to honor the emblem of the British Airborne Forces, the mythical flying horse, Pegasus. This bridge, along with its counterpart, has become a focal point in numerous books, documentaries, and the widely acclaimed film “The Longest Day.”
A force of 181 British troops, commanded by Major John Howard, successfully captured and maintained control of these bridges until reinforcements arrived. An interesting side note is that Richard Todd, the actor who portrayed Major John Howard in “The Longest Day,” was actually a Captain involved in the real-life Pegasus Bridge operation during its initial phase.
The Bridge
The bridge in Benouville, now known as the Pegasus Bridge, remains in place, though the original structure has been substituted with a nearly identical one (the original can be found in the museum). Surrounding the bridge, various markers and memorials can be observed, pointing out the spots where the gliders touched down.
The final image showcases another Signal Monument, a common sight at numerous D-Day locations in Normandy.
Click here to see where the Pegasus Bridge is located on Google Maps
The Pegasus Memorial Museum
Adjacent to the bridge stands the Pegasus Memorial Museum, a predominantly open-air establishment of considerable size. The museum showcases not just the gliders, but also a range of military equipment and uniforms.
The original Pegasus Bridge can be seen here.
Click here to see where the museum is located on Google Maps
Fontaine-la-Mallet
The pictured tank is located in Fontaine-la-Mallet, a small suburban village near Le Havre.
This tank, along with many others, played a role in the concluding days of the Battle of Normandy. During this time, 45,000 Allied troops successfully drove the Germans out of Le Havre and its neighboring areas.
This campaign was named Operation Astonia. A remnant of this operation, the tank, is displayed in an open field. While visitors can view the tank up close, interior access is restricted. Nonetheless, the site is open to the public at no cost. The tank is a Mk IV (A22) Churchill.
Le Havre
During the Second World War, Le Havre, a significant French port, suffered extensive damage. The Germans capitalized on its strategic importance and utilized its facilities. Remnants of the war are still evident throughout the city.
The plaque that is at the harbour’s water edge reads “This stele was erected after the world war to commemorate Le Havre as the principal port of landing and afterwards of reembarkation of the US Armed Forces. Between September 1944 and August 1946 3,675,000 US Military personnel passed through this port“
Monuments aux morts
The main monument honoring those who perished in all conflicts, not solely WWII, is located in the city's heart. It's here that yearly ceremonies pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for France.
Click here to see where this monument is located on Google Maps
City Hall
On the City Hall (Hotel de Ville) square, you will find this sculpture and monument.
It is a monument to the deportations during WWII. The sign says in French: “Deportation Resistance. Remember”.
Click here to see where the monument is located on Google Maps.
Fort de Tourneville
Built in 1854, Fort de Tourneville once housed multiple infantry regiments. Today, as a hub for artists, it features two plaques honoring soldiers who fell in various wars in which France participated.
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