American Cemetery Omaha Beach

 

On top of the cliffs a most moving and breathtaking cemetery for the fallen US Troops. Beautifully - immaculately - maintained by the US, the rows of graves go on as far as the eye can see.

 

Walk for a while - and still - the graves go on - and still as far as the eyes can see. Every single pure white marble gravestone has the grass around it precisely trimmed. The vastness of the devastation is very clear from this visit.

 

A genuinely very emotional place to see. Even years on from having witnessed this astonishing venue - the hairs on the back of the neck stand up every time I re-visit these photos.

 

In amongst the graves two of the sons of President Roosevelt - one whose body was moved here after his death during the First World War and the second (embossed in gold lettering) one of the few Generals who landed at Utah Beach with his troop (upon his insistence.) Surviving the "big push" on 6th June he died several days later of heart failure.

 

Beneath the cliffs - a beautiful beach. Yet one which must have been devilishly difficult to clear as a landing soldier. Long distances from waters edge to the the difficult marshy areas immediately below the cliffs, then the steep cliffs themselves. Then add a vast array of artillery and machine gun volleys being sent towards you.

 

Its impossible to even contemplate just how much of a nightmare this must have been for the poor guys who arrived at this destination.

 

A truly emotional spot. It genuinely makes one think about the value of human life.

 

Please see also the smaller - though similarly moving GB Cemetery (set.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joe White: Photographic Collection

 

www.joe-white.co.uk

 

Email: joseph.white@btinternet.com