Sword Beach, Ouisterham Tue 2nd
Thursdays Child
Robin & Joanna Minchin
Tue 2 Jun 2015 21:21
Having sailed along the entire landing area of the beaches yesterday and then walking on a part of Sword beach made me appreciate the enormity of the operation that happened 71 years ago. At low tide (when the attack commenced) there is a vast expanse of sand to cross before any protection can be found. In many areas the cliffs are steep and tall.
Today, it is a sobering thought to stand on the beach and think what my dad (aged 21) must have felt like when he arrived in a landing craft at 07.45 and had to run for cover, then knock out one of the gun emplacements before working inland.
I wish he were here to thank for the amazing bravery he and all his comrades showed on that day. It was the beginning of the change that has now enabled my family to exist in this free society we have today. I think he would have liked to see my two running across the same sands in such a carefree manner. Well done Dad.
