a solemn pilgrimage: reflecting on the sacrifice and heroism at omaha beach

infantry division allies american landing amphibious assault baie seine battlehardened beachhead british landings navy canadian coast combat troops defenses douve estuary english channel experienced france french frontline german 352nd germanoccupied gold beach invasion isigny june naval bombardment navies normandy omaha operation overlord pointe hoc portenbessin saintehonorinedespertes seaborne strongpoints army rangers united states guard utah viervillesurmer vii corps vire world war solemn pilgrimage reflecting sacrifice heroism walking sands echoes fierce battle waves crash soldiers vastness sea memories bravery dday39aph39s fought