June 6, 1944, the day Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy and began the push that led to the defeat of the Nazi regime in Germany. It was the beginning of the end of World War II. D-Day, coded operation Overlord, was the largest seaborne invasion in history.
More than 150,000 Allied troops, Americans, English & Canadians invaded Western Europe, overwhelming German forces in an operation that proved to be a turning point in World War II. During the 77-day Normandy campaign Allied Forces secured the beaches at a cost of about 10,000 soldiers and of 20,000 French civilians being killed.
During this weekend, friend of the industry and “Motographer” Horst Roesler was among those participating in the 70th Anniversary celebration along the beaches of Normandy. He brought me back these beautiful pictures to keep the memory of what happened alive and also reminding all of us that after troops and vehicles were disembarked, motorcycles played a big role in helping France liberation.
World War II was the most widespread and deadliest war in history, involving more than 30 countries and resulting in more than 50 million military and civilian deaths (with some estimates as high as 85 million dead). Sparked by Adolf Hitler’s invasion of Poland in 1939, the war would drag on for six years until the final Allied defeat of both Nazi Germany and Japan in 1945.(all photography copyright H. Roesler for Cyril Huze)
All my respect to you Cyril and Horst for publishing this.
Gorgeous pictures.
Cyril,
Thanks for posting a reminder.
Unfortunately, those who really need this wake-up call can’t even say who was in WW-II, what it was about, or where-all it was fought……… 🙁
-nicker-
I know that Cyril Huze is Franco-American. Horst Roesler is German. For sure, both born after WW2. I think it’s great that they did this report together…
WLA Yeah.
Like this kind of features. Something much more important than the latest coffee mug released by Harley…
My Salute to you Cyril! You should be proud of yourself. I am.
Cantrell
A great tribute. Thank you!
A wonderful tribute, indeed. Thank you, Cyril
Except for our President chewing gum, class must be earned!
We can no longer take him anywhere.
The top bike is a UL My Flattie is an ex South African Military Police bike.
The US Navy also used BSV HD’s and maybe others ?
Have we learned anything from these wars ?
Putin is rattling his sabre right now.
Sensational pics as usual Horst!
Right on, Nicker!
Great stuff!!
Thank you for posting this – great job!
Great tribute , to all the people who gave everything !! for the freedom of all of us. Thanks Cyril for posting it..
Thanks for this one !!!!
A BIG Salute to the Greatest generation and the wartime rides !!!!!
Hi Cyril and all in the US ,
Check this out…..
https://www.facebook.com/VictoryMotorcyclesUK
Best wishes from the UK ,
Ride safe ,
Phil