The D-Day Landing Beaches in Normandy, France — Go Here

The date was June 6, 1944. The invasion of France by the Allies had begun, and it was the beginning of the end for Hitler's Third Reich, and its occupation of mainland Europe.

Seeing the D-Day beaches evokes such strong emotions and memories, I strongly recommend you take the time to see them.

For veterans and families, it is uplifting to see the sacrifices of a generation treated with such respect. For younger generations, the lessons of the past are recounted in a simple yet powerful way. Go see these monuments - you won't regret it.

There are 8 clearly marked routes to take you on a walking tour of the invasion, battles, and finally the liberation of Normandy, and it is free-of-charge to wander the beaches and cemeteries. Different museums charge different rates, but if you buy a full-price ticket at any of the museums, you can gain free entry to most of the others over the next 30 days.

There are many different monuments set up on the different beaches - Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha, and Utah. They range from tanks and memorials to re-creations of bunkers and statues of soldiers.

There are several cemeteries  but the most unforgettable burial site overlooks Omaha beach in Collevielle - the American Military Cemetery. Here, 9,387 white marble crosses stand in precise alignment, their inscriptions facing west towards the United States, commemorating the fallen Americans who helped fight for freedom from tyranny.

I get chills every time. Go - you'll be glad you did.