The American Paratroopers in Normandy Private Battlefield Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the pivotal role played by the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions during the D-Day landings. This immersive experience transports visitors to the very locations where these elite units achieved critical objectives, including securing vital exit roads, disabling German artillery, and liberating key villages. From the courageous actions of Easy Company at Brecourt Manor to the 82nd Airborne’s liberation of Sainte-Mère-Église, this tour provides a comprehensive understanding of the American paratroopers’ instrumental contributions to the Normandy campaign. Prepare to be captivated by the stories of valor and sacrifice that shaped one of the most pivotal moments in World War II.
Key Points
- This private battlefield tour provides an immersive experience exploring the key objectives and actions of the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions during the D-Day landings.
- Highlights include the assault on Brecourt Manor by Easy Company, the liberation of Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, and the critical infrastructure secured by the 82nd Airborne Division.
- The tour covers locations such as Utah Beach, Angoville au Plain, and Carentan, offering insights into the courage and tactical skills of the American paratroopers.
- With a maximum capacity of 6 persons, the tour offers a personalized and in-depth exploration of the historical significance of the American airborne operations in Normandy.
- The 8-hour tour departs and returns in Sainte-Mère-Église, providing an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the D-Day campaign and its lasting impact.
Tour Logistics and Duration
The tour lasts 8 hours and departs from and returns to Sainte-Mère-Église, with a maximum capacity of 6 persons.
Lunch isn’t included in the tour fee.
Guests will explore the historic sites where the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions fought during the Normandy invasion. They’ll discover the target objectives of the American paratroops, like the Brecourt Manor, Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, and the La Fière bridge.
Along the way, they’ll learn about the intense battles and sacrifices made by the paratroopers as they fought to break out from the hedgerows.
The tour provides an immersive experience, bringing the history of D-Day to life through the lens of the American airborne units.
101st Airborne Division Targets
The 101st Airborne Division secured the vital exit roads from Utah Beach, a crucial step in establishing the Allied beachhead. At Brecourt Manor, Easy Company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment disabled a German artillery battery that threatened the amphibious landings.
Soldiers of the 101st were the first to liberate the village of Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, marking an important early victory for the American paratroops.
The tour also explores other key 101st Airborne Division targets:
- Angoville au Plain
- Locks of La Barquette, an objective for Colonel ‘Jumpy’ Johnson’s 501st PIR
- Dead Man’s Corner, a crucial crossroad to be taken before reaching Carentan
Brecourt Manor and Easy Company
At Brecourt Manor, Easy Company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment disabled a formidable German artillery battery that threatened the Utah Beach landings.
Demonstrating remarkable courage and tactical skill, the American paratroopers silenced the enemy guns through a daring assault led by Lieutenant Richard Winters, whose actions were later immortalized in the Band of Brothers miniseries.
The German position, consisting of four 105mm howitzers, posed a significant threat to the Allied invasion forces.
However, Winters and his men meticulously planned and executed a flanking maneuver, neutralizing the artillery and securing a critical objective for the 101st Airborne Division.
This bold operation highlighted the fighting spirit and determination of the American airborne troops during the Normandy campaign.
Sainte Marie Du Mont Liberation
Amidst the chaos of the Normandy invasion, the 101st Airborne Division spearheaded the liberation of Sainte Marie du Mont, the first village to be freed from Nazi occupation by American forces.
As paratroopers descended from the skies, they engaged in fierce fighting to secure the strategically vital town.
The liberation of Sainte Marie du Mont marked a pivotal moment in the D-Day campaign, showcasing the skill and bravery of the American Airborne troops.
Key highlights of the Sainte Marie du Mont liberation include:
- Decisive combat between the 101st Airborne and German forces
- Securing critical road networks and infrastructure
- Celebration and gratitude from the liberated French townspeople
Angoville Au Plain and Locks
As the 101st Airborne Division pushed deeper into Normandy, they encountered the small village of Angoville au Plain, where two American medics, Kenneth Moore and Robert Wright, established a makeshift aid station in the local church. Braving fierce fighting, the two men selflessly tended to the wounded from both sides, earning them the lasting gratitude of the villagers.
Further north, the 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, led by Colonel ‘Jumpy’ Johnson, had a crucial objective to secure the Locks of La Barquette, a strategic river crossing. After fierce combat, the 501st successfully captured the locks, allowing vital supplies and reinforcements to reach the American forces advancing towards Carentan.
82nd Airborne Division Locations
The 82nd Airborne Division‘s operations during the Normandy Campaign were crucial to the overall Allied success, with key objectives secured across the region.
Sainte Mère Église, a small town in Normandy, bore witness to the heroic efforts of the 82nd Airborne as they descended from the skies and engaged in fierce combat to liberate the area.
The division also played a pivotal role in capturing the Neuville au Plain Crossroad, the Caen – Cherbourg railway line, and the La Fière Bridge and Chef-du-Pont bridge.
The Iron Mike Monument, erected in honor of the 82nd Airborne, stands as a testament to the sacrifice and bravery displayed by these courageous paratroopers.
Neuville Au Plain and Caen
Nestled amid the winding roads of Normandy, the Neuville-au-Plain crossroads bore witness to the daring exploits of the 82nd Airborne Division, as they swiftly secured this vital intersection in the early stages of the D-Day invasion.
The airborne troops, having parachuted into the region just hours before the seaborne assault, quickly established control over this strategic point, denying the enemy the ability to organize a cohesive defense.
Further north, the 82nd also played a crucial role in capturing the Caen-Cherbourg railway line, disrupting German supply lines and paving the way for the ground forces to advance.
These hard-fought victories came at a heavy price, but the sacrifices of the American paratroopers would ultimately prove instrumental in the liberation of Normandy.
Highlights and Inclusions
This tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the pivotal American airborne targets from June 1944, providing an immersive experience into the history of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions in France.
Guests will learn about the Battle of the Hedgerows and the extraordinary sacrifices made by the paratroopers during the Normandy campaign.
The highlights of this tour include:
- Exploring the iconic locations where the legendary Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th PIR disabled German artillery at Brecourt Manor
- Visiting the first village liberated by the 101st Airborne, Sainte Marie du Mont
- Experiencing the crossroads and bridges that were critical objectives for the 82nd and 101st Airborne, such as Dead Man’s Corner and La Fière Bridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a formal dress code. Guests should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Dressing in layers is recommended to stay comfortable throughout the day’s activities.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, though children must be accompanied by an adult. It’s suitable for all ages, allowing families and individuals to explore the historic Normandy battlefields together.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, as lunch is not included in the tour fee. This allows them to enjoy the tour at their own pace and preference.
Is Photography Permitted During the Tour?
Photography is generally permitted during the tour, allowing guests to capture the historic sites and landmarks visited. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the tour guide or other participants.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The cancellation and refund policy is flexible. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Within 24 hours, there may be a partial refund or rescheduling option, depending on availability.
Recap
The American Paratroopers in Normandy Private Battlefield Tour offers a captivating journey through the pivotal role of the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions on D-Day.
Visitors witness the courage and determination of these elite units, from securing vital objectives to liberating villages, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the paratroopers’ instrumental contributions to the Normandy campaign.
This immersive experience provides an unparalleled opportunity to walk in the footsteps of these heroic soldiers.
