Canadian War Cemetery, Beny-sur-Mer

One can not help but be moved by a visit to the World War II cemeteries in northern France.

Whether or not one had relatives involved in D Day and the liberation of France, whether or not one has a deep interest in WW II history, just walking between the grave markers and reading about the young men who made the ultimate sacrifice is an experience one can not forget.

Please join us as we visit the Canadian War Cemetery at Beny-sur-Mer (close to Caen), France.

Note: Click on any photo to enlarge it.

The approach to the cemetery is a beautiful one. Walking through the large yard of manicured lawn lined with trees native to Canada, one is filled with a sense of calm and peace.

 Their name liveth forever more. 

The cemetery looks familiar…very similar to others in Europe. This quote from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website (www.cwgc.org) gives insight into why .

The Commission has always believed in honouring all casualties equally, without distinction on account of rank, race or creed. Within the framework set down by Sir Frederic Kenyon, who described his vision for the cemeteries in a report in 1918, the architects were free to interpret their own ideas.  Thus individual cemeteries, while conforming to the guidelines, often have great character and beauty, responding to the local environment or the surrounding architecture.  No two cemeteries are the same but they all more or less conform to the same pattern.

The Canadian maple leaf is at the top of each headstone, followed by the name, regiment, date of death and age of the soldier. Next comes a symbol appropriate to the faith of the soldier. Below this is a quote or message chosen by the soldier’s loved ones.

Between the grave markers are flowers…flowers tended by gardeners who lovingly take care of the grounds.

The Cross of Sacrifice stands in the centre of the cemetery.

Aside: I had not known the history of and significance of this symbol. I encourage you to research it if you too were not aware.

Hint: Click on the photo to enlarge it. You will see the cross in greater detail.

I was so impressed and touched by the meticulous, loving attention given to the cemetery by the French people and the CWGC. Merci, France.

 

Join us as we visit other sites related to D Day and the liberation of Europe.

Visit other mar memorials, click here.

Visit D Day beaches near Bayeux, click here.

Visit Canada House at Bernieres-sur-Mer, click here.

Visit Hell’s Corner, click here.

Travel Quiz 8 Where in the World, click here.

and/or

Travel the world with us…click here.