Normandy Dedicates First Monument to D-Day Naval Demolition Units

A groundbreaking monument honoring the U.S. Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs) and Scouts and Raiders (S&Rs) for their pivotal, yet costly, actions on Omaha Beach during the D-Day landings was dedicated in Normandy on May 30, 2024. The memorial, the first of its kind and down the same two-lane road (Rue del la 2eme Division d’Infanterie US) from the Charles Shay Monument, stands as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of these specialized units who spearheaded the assault, clearing obstacles under intense enemy fire. Located in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, near the American Cemetery, the monument aims to educate visitors about their vital contributions to the Allied victory.

The focal point of the Naval Combat Demolition Units/Scouts and Raiders Monument Park is a multifaceted display incorporating original artifacts and symbolic elements. Among these is an authentic hedgehog obstacle from Omaha Beach on D-Day, donated by the Overlord Museum, offering a tangible link to the perilous conditions faced by the NCDUs and S&Rs. A unique “Living Beach” feature contains sand gathered not only from Omaha Beach but also from various global locations where these units and their successors, the Navy SEALs, have served, fought, and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Granite panels etched with historic scenes from Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944, and inscriptions detailing the history of the NCDUs and S&Rs, provide crucial context for visitors. The narratives are presented in both English and French, ensuring accessibility for international audiences. Integrated QR codes on the panels offer an avenue for deeper engagement, directing visitors to supplementary information and resources about these units and their operations.

Further enhancing visitor understanding is a granite-etched map orienting individuals to key terrain features and reference points along Omaha Beach, allowing them to visualize the challenges faced during the landings. A striking sculpture carved from a granite pillar depicts an NCDU demolitioneer in full combat gear emerging, illustrating the manner in which these personnel were deployed into the thick of battle on D-Day. Notably, the figure for this sculpture was modeled after an active-duty Navy SEAL Chief whose father was also a retired UDT Frogman and SEAL, bridging the legacy across generations.

The monument park’s design emphasizes accessibility, with pathways seamlessly connecting to existing trails, the beach itself, and a nearby parking area. A dedicated granite panel will serve as a Donor Stone, recognizing key contributors who helped bring this commemorative project to fruition. The genesis of the monument, as articulated by organizers, is rooted in two fundamental principles: courage and sacrifice, encapsulating the extraordinary bravery displayed by the NCDUs and S&Rs despite suffering extremely heavy casualties on Omaha Beach.

The establishment of this monument fills a significant void in the historical record, providing a dedicated space to honor the specialized units whose early actions were critical to the success of the Normandy landings and the subsequent liberation of France. By overlooking Omaha Beach, the site serves as a constant reminder of their valor under fire and their indispensable contributions to the Allied cause. Organizers hope that the monument will stand proudly for generations, ensuring that the legacy of these courageous men is never forgotten by visitors from around the world.

Through its thoughtful design and incorporation of historical artifacts and information, the Naval Combat Demolition Units/Scouts and Raiders Monument Park offers a powerful and educational experience for those seeking to understand the complexities and sacrifices of D-Day. It ensures that the vital role played by these often-unsung heroes is recognized and remembered, solidifying their place in the narrative of the Normandy landings and the broader history of World War II naval operations.