Private money has developed this large and dignified tribute to the ordinary soldiers, officers, and generals; to the plans and to the resources behind the great invasion of Europe. The sculptures, statuary, and gardens are generate a touching and personal memorials.I have never seen so many historical plaques in one place in my entire life - which is good.For $2.00, take the guided tour by all means.
My Dad fought in WWII - this was a surprise - we didn't know anything about it until we got there. Well worth the trip!
This memorial is located in beautiful Bedford, Virginia because that town suffered the most loses. It is an emotional experience. The tribute is moving. I became completely absorbed by the memorial as I approached the beach area; it's really just like being there on the beach with those brave soldiers. I highly recommend an hour or two here and a monetary contribution as well.
This is another must see if you cannot travel to Normandy. The Memorial makes you realize just how much was sacrificed during this horrific time in our history.
incredible site with very knowledgeable guides. Memorial is packed with incredibly intimate honoring those brave souls of DDay. We'll definitely be back to experience the anecdotes, the displays and the personalized history presented here.DO NOT skip this exceptional experience!!
A visit to this Memorial should be a requirement for every student that is old enough to understand the sacrifices these 18 to 20 year olds made to save the world as we know it today.Without them and the other brave souls who fought in WWII it would not exist today.
walked the grounds by myself the first visit. Took the guided tour the second time. The tour guides share personal stories and so much color. The groups are impressive and moving.
I had always wanted to stop at this memorial on my way through Bedford but didn't think they are open on weekends (they are open 7days/week 10-5pm) When I arrived, I went on a guided tour (only $10 vs $8 self guided tour). Our tour guide spoke about every landmark and every beach (Omaha, Utah and others) and spoke of the main characters (Ike, Bradley & even some of Patton) the invasion, and those that were lost (not just from Virginia). It was the most engaging (come to life) memorial ever!
Located in the Virginia countryside in Bedford, VA, with the Blue Ridge mountains in the distance, The National D-Day Memorial is a solemn reminder of the immensity of the task facing the Allied forces on that day and of the impact of the sacrifice on the nation, with Bedford being the hardest hit, per capita, American community in terms of casualties. The cost of the endeavor really hits home. It is a very well done monument with short histories of all the military units involved in the assault.
This moving memorial is not to be missed. It's a tribute to the men who stormed the beaches at Normandy on June 6, 1944. Thousands lost their lives or were wounded that day, and on subsequent days. This memorial is in Bedford because this town suffered the highest per capita loss on Normandy than any other American city. I was moved to tears. Take the guided tour, as I did. Very informative.