Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, Colleville-sur-Mer

The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial is a profoundly moving tribute to the brave American soldiers who lost their lives during World War II's D-Day landings and subsequent operations. Located in Colleville-sur-Mer, France, it overlooks Omaha Beach, one of the landing sites of the Normandy Invasion. The cemetery spans 172.5 acres and is the final resting place for 9,388 military dead, most of whom were involved in the Normandy campaign.

The meticulously maintained grounds, with rows upon rows of white crosses and Stars of David, create a somber yet serene atmosphere, allowing visitors to reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom. A semi-circular colonnade forms the memorial, which lists the names of 1,557 Americans who went missing in action and whose remains were never recovered, inscribed on the Walls of the Missing.

An orientation table at the site points out the key features of the Normandy landings, providing context to the pivotal events of June 6, 1944. The memorial also includes a bronze statue titled "The Spirit of American Youth Rising from the Waves," symbolizing the courage and youthful spirit of the soldiers.

Visitors can benefit from a visitor center that presents films and exhibits about the Normandy campaign and helps to understand the scale of operations and the individual stories of those who fought and died.