Memorial at Normandy
Lynda Stenseng
First National Bank of Bemidji
55 Connection
Bemidji, Minnesota
In northern France, we visited Normandy with some sons of World War II veterans. Every morning at the flag-raising at Normandy Beach, the officers in charge of the ceremony invited these men to participate. Even people who simply had a military past participated, and after all these years, each and every participant knew the drill — marching, saluting and all that went with it.
Watching this incredibly solemn event, there was not a dry eye in the house.
Karen Betzer
Soy Capital Bank and Trust | Soy Travel Club
Decatur, Illinois
This will be our second year participating in the Civil War Series presented by Mayflower Tours. Last year, we went to Chattanooga, Tennessee, and the surrounding areas that included the sites of the Battle of Shiloh and the Battle of Chickamauga. Thousands were involved in a re-enactment, and to see them coming up over a knoll to battle was chilling. We also visited an interpretive center and museum in Chattanooga that was part of that series.
This year, we’re going with Mayflower to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to be part of that 150th anniversary of the battle.
Sheila Schwartz
Barrington Bank and Trust | Platinum Adventures
Hoffman Estates, Illinois
While there is much to do in Springfield, Illinois, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is really the highlight. You feel like you’re a part of history, and you feel like he’s talking to you. It’s spectacular. It only takes a few hours to see it, and it’s a perfect group travel venue.
Judy Jensen
Twin Lakes Community Bank | TLC Club
Flippin, Arkansas
We visited Pearl Harbor earlier this year, and while just standing and looking at the entire harbor is chilling, the most poignant moments were inside the USS Missouri battleship. We stood on the exact spot where the treaty between Japan and the United States was signed. We all remember that famous photo, but to be there in person — well, the emotions, especially with our veterans, really came out.
Linda Blom-Eiben
U.S. Bank | Silver Elite
Dubuque, Iowa
Our group loved the Museum of the Civil War Soldier at Pamplin Historical Park in Richmond, Virginia. The stories of soldiers who fought are done through demonstrations, re-enactments and incredible technology. It really brought history to life.
In addition, the rest of the park and the entire area is a history buff’s dream. There is so much to see, including more museums, antebellum homes and walking trails through Civil War fortifications. I would highly suggest spending more than a day in the area.
Lisa Jacobs
Bank of Washington | Senior Advantage
Washington, Missouri
My very first trip was to Washington, D.C., and the surrounding areas to visit so many historical venues, including Arlington National Cemetery. I was in awe with all the history of America’s past.
