The American Paratroopers in Normandy Private Battlefield Tour offers a unique opportunity for history enthusiasts to enjoy the pivotal events of World War II. Led by knowledgeable guides, this customizable 8-hour tour retraces the steps of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, exploring significant sites like Carentan, Sainte Mère Eglise, and Utah Beach. With insights into the sacrifices and heroic actions of American soldiers, the tour promises a captivating experience that delves into the intricacies of the Normandy campaign. Priced at €760 for groups of up to five, this tour is sure to pique the interest of those seeking a deeper understanding of this historical chapter.
Key Points
- This private battlefield tour explores the sites where the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions fought during the Normandy campaign, including Carentan, Sainte Mère Eglise, and Utah Beach.
- The 8-hour tour is priced at €760.00 for up to 5 participants and provides transportation, a knowledgeable multilingual guide, and a customizable itinerary.
- Participants can visit key locations such as Manoir de Brécourt and Angoville-au-Plain, and learn about the paratroopers’ heroic actions and sacrifices.
- The tour offers flexibility, with pickup from various locations, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to include additional sites.
- Based on positive customer feedback, the tour provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the American paratroopers’ role in the Normandy campaign.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The American Paratroopers in Normandy tour offers a comprehensive private battlefield exploration, priced at €760.00 for groups of up to 5 participants.
The 8-hour tour allows visitors to retrace the footsteps of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, visiting key locations like Carentan, Sainte Mère Eglise, and Utah Beach.
The 8-hour tour allows visitors to retrace the footsteps of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, visiting key locations like Carentan, Sainte Mère Eglise, and Utah Beach.
Guests can also opt to visit additional sites such as Purple Heart Lane Memorial and Chef-du-Pont.
The tour includes pickup from the Cherbourg Ferry Terminal, Bayeux, or any town in between, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Lunch isn’t included, but the guide will discuss arrangements on the tour day.
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Itinerary Highlights
This tour allows visitors to retrace the footsteps of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, visiting key locations that played a crucial role in the D-Day landings.
The itinerary highlights include:
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Carentan, where American paratroopers fought fiercely to secure the town
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Sainte Mère Eglise, the site of a famous parachute drop immortalized in the TV series "Band of Brothers"
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Utah Beach, the location of the airborne and amphibious assault
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Manoir de Brécourt, where an epic battle took place
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Angoville-au-Plain, home to a medical aid station that treated wounded soldiers
Participants will learn about the battle of the hedgerows and the sacrifices made by these brave paratroopers.
Tour Logistics
Pickup time for the tour is approximately 9:00 hrs, with drop-off time around 17:00 hrs.
The maximum capacity is 5 persons, with transportation provided throughout the tour.
Lunch isn’t included, but the guide will discuss lunch arrangements on the tour day.
The tour is flexible, with a customizable itinerary available if preferred over the set itinerary.
Visitors can expect a personalized experience with a knowledgeable live guide, who’s fluent in English, German, Dutch, and French.
The tour’s overall rating is 5/5 based on positive customer feedback, highlighting the tour’s engaging and informative nature.
Guide and Language Options
The tour guide is multilingual, offering the tour in English, German, Dutch, and French. Participants can choose their preferred language for a personalized experience.
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Knowledgeable and experienced guide to bring the Normandy battles to life
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Flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your interests
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Opportunity to learn about the heroic actions of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions
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Insightful commentary on the battle of the hedgerows and the sacrifices made by the paratroopers
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Chance to see locations featured in the acclaimed TV series "Band of Brothers"
Customer Feedback
One customer review gives the tour a 5/5 overall rating, describing it as a "thoroughly enjoyed" experience that followed the airborne troops and Utah Beach landings.
The reviewer praised the knowledgeable guide and the personable tour, which included demonstrations of US Army capabilities during D-Day festivities.
The tour appears to provide a comprehensive and immersive exploration of the American paratrooper’s role in the Normandy campaign, allowing participants to retrace their footsteps and learn about the sacrifices made during the Battle of the Hedgerows.
The Battle of Carentan
Following the paratrooper’s landing in Normandy, one of the key battles they faced was the Battle of Carentan. This strategic town was crucial for the Allies to secure, as it provided a vital road network for advancing forces.
The battle was a fierce one, with the American paratroopers facing fierce German resistance. Some key events of the battle include:
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The 101st Airborne’s capture of Carentan on June 12th, 1944
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The German counterattack that threatened to retake the town
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The heroic defense by the 101st, supported by the 82nd Airborne
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The eventual Allied victory, cementing their hold on the Normandy beachhead
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The heavy casualties sustained by both sides in the battle.
Sainte Mère Eglise and the 82nd Airborne
After securing Carentan, the 82nd Airborne Division turned its attention to the nearby town of Sainte Mère Eglise. This town held strategic importance as the first town liberated in Normandy.
Paratroopers landed under heavy fire, with some becoming entangled on the church steeple. Intense fighting ensued, with the 82nd eventually securing the town.
The heroic actions of medic Kenneth Moore and paratrooper John Steele, whose parachute caught on the church steeple, became iconic images of the battle.
The 82nd’s capture of Sainte Mère Eglise was a critical early step in the successful Allied invasion of Normandy.
The Manoir De Brécourt and the 101ST Airborne
As the 82nd Airborne secured Sainte Mère Eglise, the 101st Airborne Division turned its attention to the Manoir de Brécourt, a fortified manor house that guarded a vital crossroads.
The 101st faced a daunting task:
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Capture the manor and neutralize the German defenders
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Secure the nearby bridge over the Douve River
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Prevent German reinforcements from reaching Utah Beach
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Seize a radio transmitter to disrupt enemy communications
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Execute a bold, coordinated attack against the well-entrenched enemy
The assault on Brécourt Manor became one of the most celebrated actions of the 101st Airborne on D-Day, showcasing their courage, skill, and tactical prowess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Meals and Refreshments Included in the Tour Price?
No, meals and refreshments are not included in the tour price. The guide will discuss lunch arrangements with the group on the day of the tour. Transportation is provided as part of the €760.00 per group fee.
Can the Tour Be Booked for a Group Larger Than 5 People?
The tour can accommodate up to 5 participants. Groups larger than 5 people cannot be booked for this tour. The maximum capacity is strictly limited to ensure a personalized and intimate experience for all guests.
Is the Tour Accessible for Individuals With Mobility Limitations?
The tour is accessible for individuals with mobility limitations, as it can be customized to accommodate special needs. However, visitors should discuss any accessibility requirements with the tour provider prior to booking to ensure a comfortable experience.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests or Schedules?
Yes, the tour can be customized based on specific interests or schedules. The guide offers a set itinerary or a personalized tour option, allowing customers to tailor the experience to their preferences.
What Measures Are in Place to Ensure Health and Safety Protocols?
The tour follows strict health and safety protocols. Face masks are required, groups are limited to 5 participants, and social distancing is maintained. Hand sanitizer is provided, and surfaces are regularly disinfected.
The Sum Up
The American Paratroopers in Normandy Private Battlefield Tour offers a captivating exploration of World War II history. Participants can retrace the steps of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, visiting key sites like Carentan, Sainte Mère Eglise, and Utah Beach. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides deep insights into the heroic sacrifices of American soldiers during the Normandy campaign, making it a must-visit experience for history enthusiasts.
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