An annual journey not for the ordinary tourist but for those who wish to learn in more depth about the Normandy experience of 1944. We will follow the path of American forces from the United States to England and France.

The days are intensive and rich with meaning as we talk with historians and eyewitnesses. We go to learn, we return knowing that…

We will never forget…

…A pledge for the future rooted in an extraordinary gift of service to our nations and the people of the world. The Allied Forces who landed on Omaha beach on June 6, 1944 and fought the Battle of the Hedgerows brought liberty to Normandy and changed the world…

…The people of England who amid days of rationing and nights of bombing kept alive the vision of human dignity…

…The people of Normandy who after years of occupation and the violence of war rebuilt their land and demonstrated the benefit of shared labor...

…American, English and French united in a common endeavor yielding uncommon results…

Today our world again calls for this witness to the resilience of the human spirit in its

commitment to the common good.

Normandy Allies, working in friendship with military and civil organizations in the

United States, England and France, responds to this call.

The Program

In July of each year, Normandy Allies International Experience creates a learning community for students ages 16-19.

The students are invited to explore the stories of the ordinary soldiers and civilians caught up in the extraordinary events that signaled the end of World War II. These histories bear witness to the power of a shared goal, the benefits of working for the common good and the vitality of stretching beyond one’s own limits and expectations in order to serve a common purpose.

The program begins in the United States with the history of World War II and the Allied Landings on D-Day, particularly in the American sector. Together the students and team will travel to England where Divisions trained for D-Day. Finally the group will cross the English Channel into Normandy and focus on the liberation and reconstruction of Lower Normandy.

Yes. The English and French phases are open to adult travelers. Please note that this is not a tourist trip, but an opportunity to visit significant sites and spend time with historians and civilians who can deepen your understanding of the Normandy Experience. Contact Marsha Smith at normandyallies@worldnet.att.net for information on the next International Experience. Specify that you are interested in joining the adult traveler portion of the trip. Include your postal mailing address as the materials are in print form.

Information for Students

Each year, we welcome students who are:

Highly motivated, have an adventurous spirit and are potential leaders

16-19 years old

B average (or equivalent)

Fluent in English or French with at least one year of study in a second language.

We have prepared some materials to explain the program, the student selection process, the costs and the Travel Grants. To request your Student Information Packet, contact Marsha Smith at

Include your name, street address, city, state/province, postal code, country. Indicate in the subject line that you are requesting Student Information Packets

After you have reviewed these materials, let us know what questions you may have.

Finances

Your Student Information Packet will provide specific information on rates for the next International Experience. We encourage you to apply early for the best rates.

These rates include:

International airfares, dependent on your country of origin and the date your application is received by Normandy Allies. We encourage you to apply annually before March 15.

Bus transport and ferry transport in the United States, England and France from the gathering point in Washington DC through the return to Washington DC.

All lodging, meals, entrance fees in the United States, England and France.

Trip cancellation and Travel Insurance (separate flyer will be provided detailing coverage).

Your will be responsible for any incidental spending money you may choose to bring. The above expenses are covered for you as a member of the group and you will need to remain with the group for this coverage to apply.

Incentive Award

Applications postmarked annually by February 15 are eligible for an Incentive Award. The number of eligible applicants accepted for the program determines the amount of the individual Award. Details on the minimum award for the next International Experience will be included in your Student Information Packet.

Travel Grant

Travel Grants are available. Details for the next International Experience will be included in your Student Information Packet.

Student Application Form

Please note required recommendations and permission:

These recommendations may accompany your application or may be sent directly to Normandy Allies, Inc. by the person writing the recommendation.

We want to emphasize the significance of the Essay Requirement in Part II of the Student Application Form. We ask for one Essay which addresses the following three questions:

Why do you want to participate in the International Experience?

What will you contribute as a participant in the International Experience?

What do you hope to gain from the International Experience?

The Essay is your opportunity to distinguish yourself as a candidate for the International Experience. The essay should be between 200-250 words, typed and double-spaced. The essays will be judged on content, clarity and individuality of expression.

Applications are accepted on a rolling admission basis.

Applications must include Application Form, required references, school transcripts, written essay and $25 non-refundable application fee. International students please contact us before sending payment.

Applications postmarked by this date are eligible for the Incentive Award.

First deposit is due. Incentive Awards will be deducted from this amount for eligible applicants.

Applications for Travel Grants must be postmarked by this date.

Second deposit is due.