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Monday, May 26, 2014

From the Editor: For Memorial Day: American Cemetery in Normandy reminds us to remember ...

American Cemetery in Normandy, France, on a bluff overlooking Omaha Beach, where many Americans gave their lives during the D-Day invasion of Normandy June 6, 1944. (Photos by Keweenaw Now)

HANCOCK -- One of the most memorable -- and moving -- sites we visited during our recent trip to Europe was the American Cemetery in Normandy, located near Omaha Beach. The remains of more than 9,000 American military dead, most of whom were killed during the invasion of Normandy and ensuing military operations in World War II, are buried here.

On the cross in the foreground is written, "Here rests in honored glory A COMRADE IN ARMS known but to God." Visitors have left an American flag and a small stone from Omaha Beach to honor him. While the identity of this soldier is apparently unknown, many crosses have the actual names of the soldiers who are buried here. In the background, visitors pay their respects at the memorial.

The cemetery receives approximately one million visitors each year. A visit to the site inspires us to remember those soldiers who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.

More photos coming soon ...

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