Vernon, France

Utah Beach & Pointe du Hoc

The Role of the United States in D-Day’s Success Learn about the heroic efforts of the US soldiers who stormed Normandy’s shores during “The Longest Day”. Head to Pointe du Hoc, a promontory overlooking the English Channel, to learn how members of the US 2nd Ranger Battalion scaled a 100-foot cliff under withering fire to seize a German battery and help secure the Utah and Omaha beachheads on June 6, 1944. Visit the Utah Beach Landing Museum, which tells the story of D-Day from its planning stages to the final outcome through comprehensive exhibits and a film chronicling the experiences of those who fought. Travel to Sainte-Mère-Église to tour the Airborne Museum, which tells the story of the US 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions that were dropped behind enemy lines, and see the church steeple upon which one unlucky paratrooper, Pvt. John Steele, was stuck for several hours before his capture and eventual escape. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.