good wiki

Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial

The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial is a burial ground and memorial site located in Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy, France. It is dedicated to the American soldiers who gave their lives during World War II in the battle of Normandy.

More at Wikipedia

About

It is dedicated to the American soldiers who gave their lives during World War II in the battle of Normandy. The cemetery covers an area of 172. 5 acres and was established in 1944 by the U. S. Army. It contains the remains of 9,387 American military personnel, most of whom died during the D-Day landings and ensuing Battle of Normandy. The graves are arranged in rows and marked by white marble crosses and Stars of David. The memorial, situated at the cemetery's center, consists of a semicircular colonnade engraved with the names of 1,557 missing American soldiers who are recognized as lost at sea or never found. At the memorial's center, a bronze statue depicts a representation of the ‘Spirit of American Youth Rising from the Waves,’ symbolizing the sacrifice of the soldiers. The cemetery and memorial attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, including veterans, their families, and tourists from around the world. The site serves as a place of remembrance, honoring the courage and sacrifice of the American troops who contributed to the liberation of Europe during World War II. In addition to its historical significance, the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial also serves as a venue for commemorative events and ceremonies. Notably, on the anniversary of the D-Day landings, the site hosts a solemn ceremony attended by veterans, dignitaries, and military officials. Overall, the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial is a poignant tribute to the American soldiers who fought and died in the Battle of Normandy. It stands as a symbol of remembrance, providing visitors with an opportunity to honor the bravery of those who gave their lives in the pursuit of freedom.