Introduction
The bridge at La Fiere crossing the River Merderet saw arguably the fiercest fighting during the first three days. Under the command of Brigadier General James Gavin, part of the 82nd Airborne task was to capture and hold the bridge crossing at La Fiere to prevent the enemy entering the invasion zone from the West, principally Barneville-Carteret.
The American troops had gained control of the east bank, which included the bridge, desperately engaging the determined German counter attacks from the causeway crossing and marsh land (Marais) leading from the west. Despite very heavy losses on both sides and superior German armour and equipment the enemy never crossed the bridge.
What can be seen today?
"Never let us forget them" is stated on a commemorative plaque by their surviving comrades. The dead from both sides were stacked like logs on the roadside. Today the beautiful site belies the battlefield from 1944. Nature has healed the wounded countryside, but not the minds of those who remember the battle.
The site is dominated by the "Iron Mike" paratrooper monument cast in bronze, whose figure confidently overlooks the Bridge in casual but victorious manner.
A little further up the road is General Gavin’s foxhole - often described as a piece of Gallic exuberance - but deeply commemorative of his effective leadership at this difficult site.
Private Transfer from London by Air
Short on timer or prefer to fly?
D-Day Airtours will take you on an insightful one-day tour by air of the landing beaches and other D-Day sites. Pick up from Central London (or other areas by arrangement) in the morning, flying to Carpiquet airport, Caen from Oxford, and return by mid-evening of the same day.
Alternatively, for an even shorter visit, take a flying tour over the area with guided commentary.
Either way your tour is delivered by a professional English guide experienced and knowledgeable in the D-Day landings.
Whether you are from America, Canada or Britain you will be provided with detailed information about your country's role in the landings.
Please feel free to contact us for more detailed information - click to contact us.
If you are looking for a longer, much more in-depth trip by car and on foot, then please see our alternate site offering this at www.d-dayairtours.com.
