Brittany American Cemetery – D-Day Musical Ceremony and commemorations at St James.
Event photography by Normandy based bilingual photographer Sabina Cowdery
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For the big day itself, the 6th of June on the 75th Anniversary of D-Day I was commissioned to capture a musical ceremony and commemoration at the St James’ Brittany American Cemetery.
As well as dignitaries and US WWII veterans there were over 3000 American musicians and singers participating. The Normandy weather couldn’t have been better for everyone to participate and appreciate the veterans who were present and those buried at the cemetery having paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country and the freedom of us all.
There was a wise range of bands, from the bagpipes of the New York Fire Department to a wonderful large marching band from Texas, all decked out in their traditional Stetsons. There was also a wonderful male choir whose harmonies where a delight to listen to.
It was yet another occasion that I felt it a privilege to be asked to photograph, an experience for me, on a personal level, that I will never forget.
To organise your visit to the American Cemetery in St James (Manche, Normandy, near the Brittany border) visit : https://www.abmc.gov/cemeteries-memorials/europe/brittany-american-cemetery