Friend of the campaign Mark James, who helped ensure Tangmere Tower was listed in 2011 and saved the structure, has sent on some photos from his trip to Normandy as part of the 80th anniversary commemorations of the D-Day landings. Thanks Mark!
This first series lets you take a look at the commemorations at Pegasus Bridge, which took place on 5th and 6th June. Pegasus Bridge, originally known as the Bénouville Bridge, played a crucial role in the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944. Located over the Caen Canal in Normandy, it was captured by British airborne forces in a daring glider assault just after midnight. Led by Major John Howard, the operation aimed to secure the bridge to prevent German counterattacks against the eastern flank of the landing beaches. The successful capture and defense of Pegasus Bridge allowed for the movement of Allied forces inland, contributing significantly to the success of the overall invasion. The bridge was later renamed Pegasus in honor of the emblem worn by the British airborne forces.
(Please note: all images are copyright Mr James and not for re-use – they are used here with his express permission)
We were also lucky to get some great shots of the ceremonies at the British Normandy memorial on the 6th, which give a sense of the solemnity of the occasion.
The British Normandy Memorial was inaugurated on 6 June 2021, and is located in Ver-sur-Mer. It commemorates the British soldiers who fell during the D-Day landings and the ensuing Battle of Normandy. Designed by architect Liam O’Connor, the memorial features a central column, inscribed with the names of the fallen, surrounded by sculptures and panels detailing the land, air, and sea operations. Overlooking Gold Beach, one of the primary landing sites, the memorial serves as a solemn tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of British forces, providing a place of reflection and remembrance for future generations.
(Please note: all images are copyright Mr James and not for re-use – they are used here with his express permission)
