Our original itinerary had us visiting Omaha Beach first, and then continuing to the American Cemetary and then the Normandy Memorial. Because rush hour traffic in Paris delayed us a bit as we started our day, we made an adjustment and went first to the Normandy Memorial. This facility is actually an impressive museum dedicated to the history of World War II leading up to the Allies' D-Day invasion. Our time there ended with an impressive multi-media film that segued beautifully into our visit to Omaha Beach. Ultimately, I think the order was perfect, and I'm glad we adjusted the schedule. I believe our time walking on the beach was more meaningful having already been to the memorial/museum.
Our final stop today was the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial. I have seen this cemetary in films (like Saving Private Ryan) and in the news. Pictures just don't do it justice. It is a truly magnificent space that honors thousands who gave their life in the massive Allied assault on the Normandy coastline in 1944.
