Does anyone know if and where the paratroopers will land in Normandy during D-Day festivities? My husband and I will be in Normandy and while avoiding Omaha Beach, we think seeing troopers land might be something awe-inspiring to see. Thanks.
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Middletown, RI
1226 posts
There are many drops by reenactors in Normandy this year. But the biggest air drop includes both active military from various countires (mostly C-130 aircraft) and WWII reenactors (period uniforms, equipment and planes). It is always held on the closest Sunday to June 6th—this year that is June 9th. It will be in the fields and flood plains around the Merderet River at the La Fiére Causeway outside of Sainte-Mère-Église. Get there early. You have to park in a remote lot and walk in a mile or so. Or, if you are already in Sainte-Mère-Église, you can walk all the way (about 2-1/2 miles). Both the Round Canopy Parachute Team (RCPT, a French organization with French, UK and US parachutists) and the Liberty Jump Team (US-based round canopy parachutists) have numerous jumps throughout the week, including one on the fields outside of Mont-Saint-Michel on June 7th. There is also a group of sport parachutists (modern, ram-air parachutes as differentiated from WWII-style round parachutes) that is trying to jump on to Omaha Beach. But keep in mind that all parachute activities are very weather-dependent. I have jumped in a few times in the past with RCPT, but won't be jumping this year. However, feel free to message me for more info.