The National D-Day Memorial 2.0.14

Situated in Bedford, Virginia, the National D-Day Memorial serves as a poignant tribute to the Allied forces involved in the Normandy invasion on June 6, 1944, during World War II. This community, notable for its highest per capita D-Day loss in the nation, reflects a deep respect for the sacrifices made. The Memorial features a thoughtfully designed English Garden, an evocative beach tableau, and the impressive Victory Plaza, collectively representing the valor and dedication of those who participated in this historic event.

A visit to the Memorial is both educational and emotionally impactful. D-Day stands as the largest amphibious landing in history, necessitating extraordinary coordination of manpower and resources. Over 5,000 ships and 11,000 aircraft facilitated the landing of 150,000 Allied troops across a tumultuous 50-mile stretch of Nazi-occupied coastline in Normandy, France. Faced with inclement weather and fierce German resistance, the success of the invasion was far from guaranteed. Nevertheless, by the close of the day, the Allies had secured a crucial foothold in occupied Europe. The human toll was staggering, with over 9,000 Allied soldiers killed or injured on that fateful day alone.

The accompanying app enriches the visitor experience by providing site maps, locators for bricks and plaques, event information, and additional resources to enhance understanding and engagement with this significant site.