American 101st & 82nd Paratroopers in Normandy battlefield tour

This American 101st & 82nd Paratroopers in Normandy battlefield tour offers an in-depth look at the pivotal moments of D-Day, specifically highlighting the roles of the American Airborne divisions. Priced at $871.26 per group (up to 6 people) and lasting approximately 8 to 10 hours, this private tour provides a comprehensive exploration of historic sites with the added comfort of private transportation and bottled water included. The tour departs from Mont-St-Michel, France, and is booked typically 81 days in advance, making it ideal for those seeking a well-organized, personalized experience with a focus on WWII history.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its emphasis on lesser-known locations, exclusive insights through local stories, and period-specific demonstrations. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the experience is suited for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in understanding the American airborne operations during D-Day. A key consideration is that lunch is not included, so planning ahead is recommended. The tour’s high ratings—a perfect 5.0 from 8 reviews—highlight its reputation for expert storytelling and a well-paced itinerary.

Key Points

• Private guided tour focusing on the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions during Normandy’s D-Day.
• Duration of 8 to 10 hours, with exclusive access to historic sites and hidden locations.
• Stops include Sainte Mère Eglise, Angoville-au-Plain, Utah Beach, and more.
• Expert guide shares personal stories and original accounts to bring history alive.
• Pickup offered from Mont-St-Michel and bottled water included; lunch not included.
• Highly praised for informative narration and deep historical insights.

Start at Sainte-Mère-Église: The First Village Liberated by Airborne Troops

The tour begins at Sainte-Mère-Église, the first village liberated by the 82nd Airborne Division on June 6, 1944. Here, visitors see the famous church spire, where paratrooper John Steele got caught during the airborne operations. Inside the church, you find two stained glass windows dedicated to American paratroopers who fell during D-Day. The village square is adorned with monuments honoring the 82nd Airborne and shows the scars of fighting with bulletholes still visible.

This stop lasts about an hour and gives a vivid sense of the chaos and heroism of the first moments of the invasion. The combination of historical monuments and visual cues makes it a compelling starting point.

Beuzeville: Honoring the C-47 Skytrain Crash and Airborne Preludes

Next, the tour visits Beuzeville, home to a monument commemorating the crash of a C47 Skytrain aircraft. This plane carried Lt. Thomas Meehan and Easy Company of the 506th PIR, 101st Airborne Division—famously depicted in the Band of Brothers series. This site highlights the tragedies and heroic efforts of the airborne troops before they even reach the beaches.

Spending 30 minutes here allows a focus on aircraft losses and pre-D-Day operations, emphasizing the risks and sacrifices faced by the paratroopers even before landing.

Foucarville: Exploring a Major German Prisoner of War Camp

The tour then moves to Foucarville, where the remains of one of Normandy’s largest German POW camps are found. Over 40,000 German soldiers were housed here before being transferred to British, Canadian, or American captivity. Visiting these remains underscores the scale of German military presence in the area and the logistics involved in handling prisoners.

This stop lasts about 30 minutes and provides a somber reflection on the enormity of wartime operations beyond combat.

Ravenoville: The Encounter with a German Mobile Battery

At Ravenoville, the tour uncovers a story of paratroopers crossing swampy terrain and finding a German mobile battery. Based on original photographs, visitors learn how the American troops managed to destroy this artillery position, an important tactical success during the chaos after landing.

Spending 45 minutes here offers a close-up view of battlefield tactics and the dangers faced by soldiers during their initial drop.

Utah Beach: The Smallest of the American Beaches

The tour drives along Utah Beach, the smallest of the two American landing beaches. Here, the guide describes how elements of the 101st Airborne Division captured key strategic points, including the church tower in Sainte Marie du Mont. This site played a vital role in securing the area and enabling further inland advances.

This stop lasts about 45 minutes and helps visitors understand how airborne and amphibious operations worked together to secure the beachhead.

Angoville-Au-Plain: A Church Turned Field Hospital

One of the most powerful stops is the Church of Angoville-au-Plain. During the fighting, two American medics, Robert Wright and Kenneth Moore, transformed the church into a makeshift hospital, tending to over 80 wounded paratroopers and a local child. Despite fierce fighting, they used church pews and a wheelbarrow to deliver medical aid.

A visit here offers a personal glimpse into the heroism and compassion amid chaos, with the church still standing as a testament to those moments of selflessness.

Carentan-les-Marais: The First Bayonet Charge and Its Toll

Traveling from Angoville-au-Plain, the tour passes Dead Man’s Corner and moves toward Ingouff Farm, where the first bayonet charge of World War II ended in U.S. victory. This site highlights the bravery and leadership of the paratroopers, who faced significant costs during their early missions.

Spending 45 minutes at this location emphasizes the cost of courage and the intensity of the fighting in the Normandy area.

Neuville-au-Plain: Holding Back German Counterattacks

Next, the focus shifts to Neuville-au-Plain, where 44 American paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division set up a roadblock on June 6, 1944. Their defense held back a column of 180 German soldiers and armored vehicles, preventing a counterattack from Cherbourg until American tanks arrived from Utah Beach.

This stop lasts 30 minutes and highlights the strategic importance of small-scale defensive actions during the initial invasion.

Fresville: Commemorating Fallen Paratroopers

The visit continues at Fresville, where a monument honors Pfc William “Bill” Tucker and his comrades, who lost six men while attempting to clear a hamlet. This site captures the sacrifices made in the face of overwhelming odds and underscores the personal stories of bravery.

Spending 30 minutes here provides a touching tribute to those who fought and fell.

Gourbesville: The Battle at the Crossroads

The tour’s next stop is Gourbesville, at the crossroads where 300 American casualties occurred during nine days of fighting. The site is a stark reminder of the intensity and cost of the battle on this key route.

Spending 30 minutes at this location emphasizes the battle’s scale and the resilience of the troops involved.

Amfreville: The Deadly Dropzone T

In Amfreville, the tour visits Dropzone T, notorious for being flooded intentionally, causing many paratroopers to drown during their descent. The site features a monument for Lt. Colonel Timmes and his men, who fought surrounded by flooded terrain on three sides.

This stop lasts 45 minutes, illustrating the dangers of airborne insertion and the cost of airdrops in hostile territory.

Cauquigny and the Merderet River

Moving to Cauquigny, visitors explore the chapel of Cauquigny, located across the Merderet River. This site was contested multiple times during the three-day battle from June 6 to June 9, 1944. The La Fière Bridge is also part of this visit, a critical crossing that changed hands during the fighting.

Spending 30 minutes here highlights the strategic importance of controlling key crossing points.

La Fière Bridge and the Iron Mike Monument: The Final Stop

The tour concludes at La Fière Bridge, where the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division captured and held the bridge against fierce counterattacks, including tanks. The Iron Mike Monument commemorates their determination and success in preventing enemy crossings.

This 30-minute visit underscores the heroism of the airborne units in securing vital positions and shaping the Normandy invasion.

The Logistics and Overall Experience

The tour includes private transportation for seamless movement between sites, starting at 9:00 am. Bottled water is provided, and the tour is designed for most travelers, with easy accessibility and confirmation received at booking. The meets near public transportation, making it convenient for visitors staying in the area.

While lunch is not included, the long, full-day itinerary is well-paced, with many meaningful stops that balance historical significance and personal stories. The exclusive access to lesser-known sites and expert narration make this tour stand out from more generic Normandy Battlefield tours.

Final Thoughts on the Normandy Airborne Tour

This private tour offers a comprehensive and detailed exploration of the American airborne operations during D-Day. The guided storytelling enhances understanding, especially through original accounts and personalized insights. The high ratings reflect its reputation for knowledgeable guides and well-curated stops.

The tour suits history buffs, military enthusiasts, and those eager to see lesser-known sites alongside the iconic landmarks. The price point is higher compared to group tours, but the personalized experience and expert guidance justify the cost.

This tour provides a meaningful, detailed look at the courage and sacrifice of the American Airborne Divisions in Normandy, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting an immersive and educational experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible, but some stops involve walking on uneven terrain.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring your own or organize a meal beforehand.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour for up to 6 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup from Mont-St-Michel is included in the package.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, covering many significant sites.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its focus on lesser-known locations, exclusive access, and expert storytelling set it apart.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is included to facilitate the full-day experience.

What do reviews say about this tour?
It is highly rated, with praise for the guide’s knowledge, storytelling, and the depth of historical insights.

Who is the guide?
The tour is led by Willem, known for his deep knowledge, storytelling skills, and friendly approach.