Footsteps of Liberators: A Journey Through Normandy
Much has happened since Eisenhower first drafted that triumphant call to arms some seventy years ago. The world is very much a changed place. There are no more air-raid sirens blaring over the streets of London; no more war planes soaring over the skies of Dover; no more anti-aircraft batteries booming off the beaches of France. But to go back there, to see the place where 160,000 allied troops made their landing on June 6, 1944, was for a me a walk in the footsteps of liberators.
General Dwight D. Eisenhower addresses Allied troops shortly before the Normandy invasion, June 1944.
Source: U.S. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA).
“You are about to embark upon the Great Crusade, toward which we have striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you. The hopes and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you. In company with our brave Allies and brothers-in-arms on other Fronts, you will bring about the destruction of the German war machine, the elimination of Nazi tyranny over the oppressed peoples of Europe, and security for ourselves in a free world.”
Dwight D. Eisenhower, Letter to Allied Forces
Big John departs the white cliffs of Dover and gets underway for France.
Crossing the English Channel
When the men of D-Day entered into France they did so under the heat of battle. The Normandy landings were the largest seaborne invasion in all of recorded history, with nearly 5,000 landing craft, 289 escort vessels, and 277 minesweepers taking to the beach. In addition to this, nearly 1,200 aircraft left England the previous night to place three airborne divisions in drop zones behind enemy lines.
Dover, England to Calais, France aboard one of P&O’s luxurious ferries.
In stark contrast to the D-Day invasion, Big John traveled to France in style aboard one of P&O’s luxurious ferries. The entire trip took just 90 minutes and the reputable ferry line offers a host of dining and leisure activities while underway.
Many German remnants, such as the Todt Battery, were observed as I made my way towards the invasion beaches.
Located near Calais, France, the Todt Battery is a battery of coastal artillery built by the Germans in World War II. The site now operates as a war museum.
The beautiful port city of Honfluer, France
Honfluer, France is a picturesque port city welcoming travelers en route to Normandy beaches. I stayed overnight here and found the place simply charming.
German bunker still guards the beach in Longues-sur-Mer, France.
The streets of Arromanches-les-Bains on Gold Beach
Arromanches is a friendly coastal town littered with souvenir shops containing American military memorabilia, wonderful cafes, and a D-Day museum. An artificial port was installed on Gold Beach that received 9,000 tons of allied materials during the height of the invasion.
American memorabilia on display in Arromanches
The D-Day Museum in Arromanches-les-Bains
The D-Day museum in Arromanches is located in a place where history will never be forgotten. The museum, overlooking the beach and the remains of Mulberry Harbour, is at the heart of a vibrant, busy square lined with shops and cafés.
It was landing crafts, such as the one resting here, that brought liberation to the French people.
Operation Overlord as it appeared in June 1944
Traveling through quant villages under gray skies to Omaha Beach.
If you ever make it to the Normandy region of France, I recommend you take one of these pitstops along the way and purchase a bit of hard cider. The Normans are well known for making a delicious cider by combining apple juice with brandy.
I can’t imagine this scenery has changed much since the D-day landing.
Don’t miss the Big Red One Assault Museum along the way!
Battle scenes from the past adorn the side of this historic building.
Restaurants, shops, and other businesses around Normandy beaches still pay tribute to their liberators.
Your sacrifices will not be forgotten, We salute you.
There were numerous signs to guide me along the way.
There was something surreal about snapping pictures through a rain-soaked windshield in Normandy, France.
Actual scenes from Normandy Invasion affixed to structures that survived the war.
This road would carry me directly onto Omaha Beach. I had finally arrived.
An informative placard detailing a German strong point during the invasion.
Looking out towards the monument honoring the valiant Americans of the 5th Engineer Special Brigade who lost their lives during the invasion.
Big John peering down into a German bunker.
A monument to the gallant men of the Big Red One.
All is quiet now on Omaha Beach.
A storm is brewing over a windswept beach,
Entering into the rusty entrance of a battered bunker.
A lonely and naked tree stretches out against the dark skies.
Looking out to the place the Americans landed.
1944 etched in stone.
Big John is humbled standing in the path of liberators.
I felt a changed man after visiting such a solemn place.
The entrance way to Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial
I found the following inscription on a wall inside the cemetery. It was perhaps the only words ever needed spoken in such a solemn place.
IF EVER PROOF WERE NEEDED THAT WE FOUGHT FOR A CAUSE AND NOT FOR CONQUEST, IT COULD BE FOUND IN THESE CEMETERIES. HERE WAS OUR ONLY CONQUEST: ALL WE ASKED … WAS ENOUGH … SOIL IN WHICH TO BURY OUR GALLANT DEAD.
General Mark W. Clark
Here lies the remains of 9,387 Americans who died so others could again be free.
Pictured above is the final resting place of those fallen liberators of Normandy. To follow in their footsteps, to revisit the places where men stood up for a cause so much greater than themselves, I leave here a humbled man. I would leave this hallowed place to return to my homeland… their homeland – a place which many would never see again.
Thank you for reading my article on Big John’s Adventures in Travel. Please feel free to leave a comment and explore other areas of my site. I hope you will visit again soon or share on social media.
Happy travels,
Big John
Posted in Adventurous Places, Europe, Historical Journeys.
Maui and the Road to Hana
There are few drives in the world as legendary as Maui’s Road to Hana, and after experiencing it for ourselves, it’s easy to understand why. What began as a short family getaway quickly became one of the most memorable adventures of our Hawaiian vacation. Around every bend, the island revealed another breathtaking scene—lush emerald rainforests, towering bamboo groves, cascading waterfalls, and rugged coastal cliffs where the turquoise Pacific crashed against ancient lava rock.
The Road to Hana is about far more than reaching a destination. It’s about slowing down, embracing the journey, and discovering the hidden treasures scattered along the way. We explored the striking black sands of Waiʻānapanapa State Park, admired the tranquil beauty of the Seven Sacred Pools at ʻOheʻo Gulch, and found countless scenic overlooks that seemed almost too beautiful to be real.
With more than 600 curves and dozens of one-lane bridges, the drive itself is an adventure, but every mile rewards you with another unforgettable view. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking through tropical forests, or simply pulling over to soak in the scenery, the Road to Hana offers an authentic glimpse into the natural beauty that makes Maui one of the most enchanting islands in the world.
Come along as we share our favorite stops,and the unforgettable moments that made this journey one we’ll never forget.
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Even the views from the airport were spectacular.
No visit to Hawaii is complete without trying one of the islands’ most iconic comfort foods—Loco Moco. While it may not look fancy, one bite is all it takes to understand why locals have loved it for generations.
Traditionally, a Loco Moco begins with a generous bed of steamed white rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a perfectly cooked fried egg, and a rich, savory brown gravy poured over the entire dish. Simple ingredients come together to create a meal that is hearty, satisfying, and bursting with flavor.
The dish is believed to have originated in Hilo on the Big Island in the late 1940s when a group of local teenagers wanted an inexpensive meal that would fill them up after school. The owners of the Lincoln Grill responded by combining rice, a hamburger patty, and gravy into a single plate. An egg was added later, and the Loco Moco was born. Today, nearly every restaurant, diner, and local café throughout Hawaii offers its own unique version.
Just one of the beautiful sights along the road to Hana.
After winding our way through countless curves, crossing one-lane bridges, and stopping at waterfalls and scenic overlooks, we were more than ready for a relaxing meal. Tucked away along the Road to Hana, Hana Harvest Café proved to be one of those hidden gems that perfectly captures the laid-back spirit of East Maui.
Rather than offering a typical tourist experience, the café focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients that showcase the flavors of the island. Many of the fruits, vegetables, and herbs used in their dishes are grown nearby, making every meal feel as fresh as the scenery surrounding it. Whether you’re stopping for breakfast, lunch, or simply a refreshing smoothie, you’ll quickly appreciate the emphasis on quality and sustainability.
The peaceful, open-air setting provides a welcome break from the road. Surrounded by tropical greenery and the slower pace of Hana, it’s the perfect place to relax, recharge, and enjoy the simple pleasures of island life. Friendly service and generous portions only add to the experience, making it easy to understand why both locals and visitors speak so highly of this charming café.
If you’re planning a drive along the Road to Hana, consider making Hana Harvest Café more than just a quick stop for a meal. Take your time, enjoy the atmosphere, and savor the flavors of Maui. It’s the kind of place that reminds you some of the best travel experiences aren’t found at famous landmarks—they’re discovered around a table, sharing good food in an unforgettable setting.
The Road to Hana isn’t about reaching a destination—it’s about slowing down and enjoying every mile along the way. Around nearly every bend, another waterfall, scenic overlook, or hidden beach seemed to be waiting for us.traveler on the road to Hana is on island time.
Some of the best memories came from the unplanned stops. A quick pullout became an incredible photo opportunity, and a short walk often revealed a view we would have missed if we had been in a hurry.
I am literally on top of the world.at Haleakalā National Park. Haleakalā National Park is home to Maui’s dormant volcano, rising more than 10,000 feet above sea level. Known for its breathtaking sunrise views, colorful volcanic landscapes, and scenic hiking trails, the park offers visitors a chance to experience one of Hawaii’s most spectacular natural wonders
I found the edge of the earth and almost fell off.
Big John with his beautiful partner in crime.
No matter how many photos we took, they never seemed to capture the true beauty of Maui. Some places simply have to be experienced in person.
As the day continued, we found ourselves stopping less because we needed a break and more because we simply didn’t want to miss anything. Every overlook seemed worthy of another photograph.
“How much you wanna make a bet I can throw a coconut over them mountains?… Yeah… Coach woulda put me in fourth quarter, we would’ve been state champions. No doubt. No doubt in my mind.”
Some views don’t need a filter or a clever caption. Maui did all the hard work—I just happened to be standing there with a camera.
It wasn’t just the waterfalls that made the Road to Hana unforgettable. Around nearly every bend, the rainforest exploded with color, reminding us that Maui’s beauty extends far beyond its beaches. 🌺
Rebecca is only smiling for the camera. She is really terrified of every sort of bird.
The historic Wananalua Congregational Church has stood in the heart of Hana since 1858. Built from lava rock and surrounded by swaying palms, it’s a quiet reminder of Maui’s rich history and enduring island spirit.
One of the countless waterfalls that make the Road to Hana so unforgettable. Around nearly every bend, another breathtaking cascade reminds you why this journey is considered one of the world’s most scenic drives.
Hana was every bit as charming as we’d hoped—a quiet little town where time seems to slow down. But as we began the drive back, I couldn’t help but realize that Hana wasn’t really the highlight of the day. It was everything that led us there: the waterfalls around every bend, the lush rainforests, the roadside fruit stands, the breathtaking coastal views, and the countless moments that made us pull over and simply take it all in. Life has a way of teaching the same lesson. We spend so much time focused on reaching our destination that we sometimes forget to appreciate the journey. If the Road to Hana taught us anything, it’s that some of life’s greatest memories are made along the way, not just at the finish line.
Happy travels,
Big John
Posted in Adventurous Places, Hawaii, North America.
Seven Days at Boulder Crest Arizona
In the latter part of July 2025, my family and I escaped to the breathtaking Sonoita Region of Arizona, spending a restorative week at the Boulder Crest Retreat. This 130-acre haven, once home to legendary figures Geronimo and Cochise, now offers solace and healing to combat veterans and their families. Boulder Creek Arizona provides 2-7 night stays for combat veterans and their families completely free of charge on a space-available basis. Guests who stay at Boulder Crest Arizona are invited to hike, fish, and explore their grounds unimpeded; or simply relax in and around one of their completely furnished cabin which come fully equipped with everything except for the groceries. The Boulder Crest Foundation is a nationally-recognized charity organization serving members of the military, veterans, and first-responders with a focus on post-traumatic growth.
Words can not express the gratitude I have for the Boulder Crest Foundation and their welcoming and friendly staff. While participating in some long overdue family R&R on the property, I managed to capture some memorable snapshots of our stay. We had an amazing time where were able to fully relax, unwind, and spend quality time away from the hustle and bustle of every day life.
Upon entering our beautiful abode, we were greeted with a wonderful gift basket, a smores kit, and a sign welcoming us home.
Arie was more than pleased to find a playground right outside our front door.
Selah has never met a swing she didn’t like.
Old Glory flies high at the center of the property, honoring all those who have served bravely in our armed forces.
A solemn place to remember those who have paid the ultimate price.
The tranquility of the Hero’s Garden offered a welcome respite from the desert heat.
I took my lucky fishing buddy to the pond and it really paid off!
Big John finally caught one that didn’t get away… In full disclosure, I released the bass after taking this snapshot.
This old barn was part of the original homestead. It is now used for hosting special events on the property.
She rarely embarks on any adventures without her pink unicorn hat and “Wolfie” in tow.
This just reinforces the idea that life in a hammock is always good!
As the evening begins to cool, Mommy and Liza are taking the opportunity to rest on a seat overlooking the canyon.
There are several hiking trails in and around the property offering stunning views of the Arizona landscape.
There is also no shortage of grills, ovens, and fire pits all about the property. This is a good thing because food just tastes better in the great outdoors!
Arie wanted to add more wood but I really didn’t want a bonfire.
Selah just wanted to eat smores.
I may be biased, but those are some good lookin’ kids!
Time to feed the horses!
Arie wasn’t afraid to climb the corral rails to get eye-to eye with his new-found friends.
One does not have to venture far to see some pretty historical places in the area. The Old West Town of Tombstone is only a 40 minute drive from Boulder Crest Arizona….well, it may be a bit longer if you’re hitchin’ up this wagon to drive into town.
“A man travels the world over in search of what he needs, and returns home to find it.” – George Moore
On behalf of myself and my family, thank you Boulder Crest Arizona for all that you do! The Boulder Crest Foundation’s commitment to our returning warriors is truly inspiring. I highly recommend this extraordinary retreat for veterans and their families as it will be be a life changing experience that will solidify, renew, and set them on a path towards wholeness.
Happy travels,
Big John
Posted in Adventurous Places, North America and tagged Boulder Crest Arizona, Sonoita Region.
The Paumalu Bunker Hiking Trail on Oahu’s North Shore
For the most part, only locals with intimate knowledge of the North Shore are familiar with the Paumalu Bunker that overlooks the Banzai pipeline on Sunset Beach. However, most mainlanders can easily describe the legendary conditions out on the Banzai Pipeline of Sunset Beach. The Banzai Pipeline is a famous surf reef break off of Ehukai Beach Park in Pupukea. The pipeline hosts some off the most gnarly surfing competitions in all of North America. With waves reaching as high as 20 feet in the winter months, it is no wonder that surfers and non-surfers alike flock to this sandy shore to see surfing professionals risk life and limb for the glory of the sport.
Since I am by no means a serious surfer, and I did not wish to go to my watery grave on any Pacific Island, I chose to participate in a much-lesser known excursion in the area involving dry land – the Paumalu Bunker Hiking Trail.
The island of Oahu is littered with numerous bunkers and pillboxes which defended her coastlines during WWII. Most of these defensive positions, if not all, have become popular hiking spots on the island.
Posted in Adventure Fitness, Adventurous Places, Hawaii, North America and tagged Banyan trees, Hawaii, North Shore, Oahu, Paumalu Bunker.
Toddlers with Tantrums Raze the Deadwood Hills
Traveling through the Black Hills in early April is always a bit of a gamble. You might enjoy beautiful spring weather—or you might find yourself driving through a full-blown snowstorm. Throw three young kids into the equation, and it’s only a matter of time before you need a vacation from your vacation. Fortunately, those unexpected moments often make the best memories. Despite the blizzards, the chaos, and the occasional parental exhaustion, our family enjoyed an unforgettable adventure through the spectacular landscapes of South Dakota and Wyoming. Historic Deadwood became our western headquarters, providing the perfect base from which to explore the Black Hills while stepping back into the days of the Old West.
Gold was found in the Black Hills in 1874, leading to a major gold rush that attracted thousands of miners in search of wealth and recognition. Named after a significant gulch filled with fallen trees, Deadwood gained fame for its colorful residents like Wild Bill Hickok, Poker Alice, and Calamity Jane. Living in Deadwood for two years during my childhood holds a special place in my heart.
(more…)Posted in Adventurous Places, Historical Journeys, North America and tagged Black Hills.