Normandy

In the greatest amphibious invasion in history, forces made up of American, British, and Canadian units descended on the beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1944. When the soldiers attempted to liberate Nazi-occupied France during World War II, they were greeted with fierce resistance from impenetrable German cannons.

The attack was started the morning of the fight by glider and parachute troops who descended behind enemy lines to occupy bridges and evacuation lanes. Then, more than 150,000 Allied soldiers launched an assault on and seized five predetermined beachheads. Less than a year later, the European conflict came to an end.

The memorials and museums in Normandy are a testament to the incredible sacrifice and courage that took place there. Additionally, concrete pillboxes that serve as a chilly reminder of a not-so-distant past are still visible along the beach.

Country: France