Exploring Omaha Beach In Search Of Ultimate 'Then and Now' Photo | D-Day History | WW2

[@MartinSparks-ef9gr]

Hi . Awsome series . The gun at the end , with the perforated muzzle break is a pak 97/38 . A French, fast firing 75mm with the barrel shortened and break added . It was put on the pak 38 chassis, hence the same curved gun shield as the 5cm pak 38 . M

[@thehistoryexplorer]

@@MartinSparks-ef9gr outstanding! I’ll pin this comment so others can see it. Thanks for the insight! Very much appreciated

[@pablovonyaletown5997]

@@thehistoryexplorer. Captured Fench gun, Swiss Solothurn muzzle break en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/7.5_cm_Pak_97/38

[@michaelmckellar7620]

Your production of these Pics then and today are shockingly brilliant. Thank you!!!

[@Jaden-y7e]

​@@pablovonyaletown59974 Replies

[@Jaden-y7e]

@@michaelmckellar7620 4 Replies

[@jamesross1799]

And I completely agree that people having fun with their children on the beach is exactly why so many young men sacrificed everything.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That’s my view as well. I don’t want people climbing on graves or anything but people should be allowed to live in freedom

[@jamesross1799]

@@thehistoryexplorer exactly.

[@PAS_2020]

I love your followers as they comment in the comment section. Everybody here, so grateful. ❤

[@niallmccabe8240]

Just got back from Normandy a week ago and thought the same thing, really felt like it was some beautiful symbolism to see people having fun and enjoying their time on the beach compared with the carnage of 80 years previous

[@davidmcdonald6804]

Exactly you are 💯 percent right 🇺🇸🇬🇧🇫🇷

[@dascudder]

Great video. Breaks my heart every time I see that guy dropping as he runs up the beach. You see the bullets hit the water behind him. The bravery, unthinkable. We will never forget!!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Yes it’s terrible!

[@panthercreek60]

That poor man has been killed a hundred times a night somewhere for 80 years

[@Angela-ef5yj]

That always makes me feel very sad to see that too 😢

[@kevinac4397]

To be gravely wounded in such a hostile environment is so scary.

[@danielkeating1201]

This "then and now" episode is soooo compelling I wouldn't care how long it is. Well and truly, at 23 plus minutes, I was left wanting much more. Many thanks for your effort.Pray continue.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoy it! Really appreciate it

[@Jaden-y7e]

​@@thehistoryexplorer2 Replies

[@kenyoung4610]

To think of all the tragic sorrow that occurred along this beach on that fateful day in June of 1944. The pictures now show such peacefulness of a time and place where many souls were sacrificed for the liberation of France from their enemy. It just reminds us of the price that was paid for our and their freedom. The then and now photos are awesome, and bring to light what most of us can only read about. Thanks for sharing a piece of history. What a tribute of remembrance to the souls lost that day. May they rest in peace!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I hope I did them justice! Thank you for the very thoughtful comment

[@Jaden-y7e]

3 Replies

[@alicebarton27]

Both sad and nostalgic.

[@dunno6442]

The younger curious part of me wants to go back and watch this battle as a bird on a tree, but the sensible part of me knows how traumatic that would actually be. I’m always conflicted between my curiosity and sadness of this war, it’s truly hard to comprehend what these lads went through.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It is isn’t it. I wouldn’t be interested in going here on D Day!

[@sassiebrat]

I completely agree. There is nothing that compares to first hand exerience.

[@Jaden-y7e]

​​@@sassiebrat3 Replies

[@cathibyers9639]

And most of the Brave were just hometown Boys that definitely learned to be Men very quickly I just cannot imagine a 17 or 18 yr old of today standing in the boots of theMen during that period of our Country’s History. I will not preach, but what I see anymore are mixed up kids not knowing if they are male /female, straight/gay, males thinking they can give birth, and around and around it goes Whose fault is this??? Well that will take another series Please forgive my “rant” but looking into the faces of the men you have captured forever, is chilling and heart-wrenching I fear everyday that this moment in History will one day be forgotten. We must teach our children and Grandchildren what the price of “Freedom” truly means🙏🏻❤️🇺🇸 Cathi Byers Maryland USA

[@dustygreyfox9788]

Being involved would make or break you as a human… different breed of soldiers!! RIP to the hero’s that fought 🫡

[@davidcanton2618]

I just got back from Normandy and stood at the very same places you show in your video. I stumbled on Omaha Beach near St. Laurant and walked that same sheep pen down to the shore. Thank you for your attention to detail. It was a very touching moment to see Omaha Beach. After so many years of veneration of the Normandy landings to actually see the the place itself was a thrill and a very moving moment. It is just a beach, but the men who came ashore that day are the ones who made it a place of heroism and awe.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I bet you had the most amazing time David, I love Normandy and go every few months from the UK. What a beautiful place with so much history y

[@janetslicer3637]

I don't know why these photographic shots hit me differently but they did. Maybe because I looked at these men in a different light. How many survived D-day? How many survived to capture the enemy in their positions? How many survived the hedgerows? How many survived to see the liberation of France? How many of these faces really survived the war? How many made it home? Just looking in to their faces I wonder. It hurts my heart. And then there is that beautiful cemetery where so many were laid to rest, never getting to go home and be buried with their families and ancestors. I don't know how the greatest generation did it. But they did and we can never thank them enough. Thank you Rob for another video that always makes me think about these men. ♥️☘️

[@thehistoryexplorer]

What a wonderful comment. Thank you for sharing. I’m so glad you enjoyed this video, I just wish more people got to see it

[@janetslicer3637]

@user-gy5zy6bh3u I reviewed the information you supplied via the link you added. It is very sad. I knew some of the fatalities but not all. I am not sure what you want me to say. My Father was British, my Mother was Canadian, everyone suffered, some more than others. I blame the bloody Germans who invaded Poland first and reaked havoc all over Europe. I won't apologize for the Allied troops, they were given orders and tried their best to carry them out. War is hell. It is still going on today by little men who think they are mighty. That includes all kinds of men today. It sucks. Take care.

[@zulutgseta8276]

Not many survive. But only matt damon were survived, but tom hanks is dead together with his own platoons 🤭🤭

[@susieq9801]

@@zulutgseta8276 - I lost cousin at Caen (Battle of Buron and buried at Beny sur Mer) who landed at Juno Beach. My dad was in an RCAF Mosquito Squadron and he also had cousins who landed at Juno. Don't forget Gold, Sword, Juno and Utah.

[@NoahAusten-z4d]

My great grandfather was in WWII, but what part he played or where he came into the war I do not know, but I do know he was in WWII.

[@tomr1630]

Good job, Thank you. My uncle was a WW II vet. Fought with the 75th Infantry in the Battle of the Bulge.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you very much. You must be so proud of your family connection. I will visit Belgium soon to make videos on the Bulge, I hope you’ll watch them 👍

[@lilliekinder2250]

​My father was at Omaha and the Bulge.

[@Jaden-y7e]

@@lilliekinder2250 3 Replies

[@760Piper]

Probably the best then and now video of Omaha and the area around it on You Tube. Very well done. Lots of work I’m sure but much appreciated by those of us who will probably never visit. Great job!!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That’s high praise indeed. Thank you. I just wish the video was shown to more people. KZbin seems to suppress the channel for some reason

[@randgibbs1440]

​@thehistoryexplorer I always see them, but they don't always pop up for a few weeks or months. I want to say thank you, though. Some of us would dearly love to go visit these hallowed grounds and walk in the footsteps of those who were there, but may never get the opportunity.This work is more important than you might realize.

[@Jaden-y7e]

@@randgibbs1440 3 Replies

[@MrDoyle07]

My God these then and now pics are so inspiring and they beckon a deep respectfrm some lace deep down in. I am a year older now than my Father when he died at 66 years old in 1988. He fought this war and these help me feel something of him that without these I could not know without them. Thank you for this.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I’m so glad you enjoyed this video 👍 thank you

[@stanleyparkin7718]

Me and my son went to normandy in 2017 and we went to every landing beach and I love these pictures cos they are places we have been too I was 7 years old when this was going on so I know first hand what these men went through to say they were the greatest generation was a truly understatement I salute them all god bless them men and boys who fought and died there ❤

[@wendyt7958]

My father was there...not sure which action of Omaha Beach but he was part of the 3rd wave of soldiers to come ashore....he was a great man among many great men

[@NuevaOla8986]

Tristemente solo los utilizaron, a USA lo obligaron a entrar a la guerra. Por eso las guerras son horribles. Busca el documental Europa la última batalla y entenderás quienes planearon las guerras.

[@jamespileggi6650]

I have been here and you have done a wonderful job of bringing the past back to life for me. My uncle landed here, on D Plus 4. He said there were still bodies in the water at Omaha when he came ashore. Thank you for presenting this in a very human way.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That’s terrible! Thank you for sharing your connection to this special place.

[@johnc2438]

Thank you for doing what you're doing, brining this day back to us -- salute from a retired U.S. Navy chief petty officer.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I really appreciate that. Thank you

[@patricklorio7657]

Go Navy!​@thehistoryexplorer

[@colinwhite5355]

Each one, some mother’s son, none of whom, given the chance, would have chosen to be there - and here we are, today, with the same evil men wreaking havoc on the majority of us who crave a peaceful coexistence. Thank you for your excellent and sensitively presented work.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you Colin. So glad you enjoyed the video 👍

[@Jaden-y7e]

​@@thehistoryexplorer2 Replies

[@NuevaOla8986]

Ya viste el documental Europa la última batalla? Por eso se que tienes razón

[@NuevaOla8986]

Ya viste el documental Europa la última batalla? Por eso se que tienes razón

[@Marw169]

We were in normandy this year for 80th anniversary with my girlfriend. It has been my dream for many years and it finally came true... and it was probably the strongest experience I've ever had. Our first stop was Omaha beach Dog Green sector. I wanted to see this place first, because years ago, thanks to this place that was shown in the movie "Saving Private Ryan", i became interested in ww2 and especially the battles in Normandy. We passed through the village of Vierville-sur-Mer where there was already an American camp with Shermans and lots of other military vehicles and equipment. And when I first saw the beach with my own eyes from the W72, i immediately cried. I had seen the place in so many photos, videos, documentaries, books and now I had the beach right in front of me. In total we were there for 9 days and had some incredible moments, saw absolutely breathtaking places, met several veterans (I shook hands with one, I have a signed postcard from one, I even chatted with one for a while) these are the days of which I will never forget.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I know those same emotions. I feel it every time I go to these locations! I’ve made a few videos from Normandy if you want to check them out while you’re away

[@Marw169]

@@thehistoryexplorer I'll definitely check them out

[@PAS_2020]

The whole thing emotional. Have told you a few times how much I love your work. Think I also may have mentioned that while you work in your studio if you want some background music and nostalgia going on, turne in to British Home Front Radio streaming 24/7. Exactly the broadcasts these men and women were hearing every day. Hearing some of the homefront advisements to the British people on their radios makes my heart skip a beat just like these “Before and After” photos. Just to think these guys were alive listening to the very same thing we can hear now. 🗣️ 🎼🎶🎵🌍

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Yes thank you for letting me know, I have listened to that a few times. It’s brilliant! Appreciate your feedback

[@suepalin9202]

I didn't know about BHFR, so thank you for the link. I shall enjoy listening to these old broadcasts!

[@porkiepie1997]

I live close to the beach and I’m British and my wife and I too feel that the people having fun on the beach is wonderful as to free the place and Europe was the whole point of the war. We always think of the men of all nationalities who came ashore on that day to face death with courage. We salute them.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Absolutely!

[@tex148th]

I was born as the beaches were being stormed by the Allies. "D-Day Normandy" and I just shared our 80th anniversary. I am in awe as you did the video comparisons. Thank you for your work.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thanks for sharing!! And happy 80th year. So glad you enjoyed the video

[@2Atreehugger]

Thank you for your hard work in making these videos. I have been a student of this period’s history for decades as i knew several veterans and of family who lived through it…. This has reignited my strong passion to read, watch and absorb all I can about this horrific and enduring part of our world’s history. God bless those souls who still suffer, suffered and have given their ultimate gift for our freedoms.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much, I love being able to share these videos with people who have the same interest!

[@napierlines6977]

I could watch an hour of this and not once look at my watch. I love these shows, thank you

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thanks! I’ll see what I can do!

[@paulevans3827]

As they say, the picture is worth 1000 words thank you so much for all of your hard work👏🇬🇧

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It is my pleasure, I love visiting these locations

[@hueyman624]

I was there 4-10 June this year. There were so many Jeeps, GMC trucks, Dodge WCs and other vehicles you would have thought the invasion was the prior week. A very great and moving experience.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That would have been brilliant but I try to avoid the crowds!

[@Jaden-y7e]

​@@thehistoryexplorer2 Replies

[@briantaylor6562]

Great work, really emotional. They must have been scared to death. Fought for freedom for the world, right there.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Well said Brian! And thank you for the feedback

[@virginiasoskin9082]

Being on those landing boats and then exposed to gunfire as you raced as fast as you could up the beach and guys falling all around you. Terrifying! And some guys drowned with all their heavy equipment even before they GOT to shore. I guess you just figure you are going to be killed but you are going to die trying to do your duty. I am from a small town in PA and have a brochure of a "welcome home" celebration the town held around 1947. All the men and women who served were listed; it was four or five columns of names on this 8 1/2 x 11" paper folded in half. Ten men never made it home and they were listed separately. This was in a town of about 5000 at the time.....one family had about six kids who served, both guys and girls, and they ALL made it back home. That was a miracle.

[@mikeschillinger4427]

Hour long then and now is fine with me. I love your work.

[@paulheinz2145]

Amazing feelings of patriotism overwhelm me with each photo. Without a doubt God has touched you to act. Thank you for what you work so hard to give us.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Wow, thank you! What a lovely and kind thing to say 🙏

[@417jumps3]

Where you find the “then” pics and do the research to line them up with the “now” pics is just amazing!! Where in the heck do you find the “then” pics??!! And people are right, that is hallowed ground. The purpose of the events that day was so people could enjoy those beaches again!! I can guarantee you won’t be able to find a single veteran who was there who wouldn’t want people to enjoy those beaches!!! They sacrificed their lives for that very reason!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Well said

[@Strength-in-Union]

Another excellent show. 👍🏻 Great to see how you line up the photos.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it mate

[@stevekrilich3040]

Awesome video. If it was one hour or two hours long it would still be awesome.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Brilliant thank you 👍

[@jamesross1799]

And yes mate an hour episode would be much appreciated 👍

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I’ll see what I can do!

[@ohdehhan]

@@jamesross1799 Hope he has enough photos!! Lol But seriously, those colour pics from after the war with a kid on the gun barrel were interesting. It'd be interesting to see postwar (a couple of years or so) photos of the area too (if you DO ever run out!!).

[@patricklorio7657]

Hear,Hear!

[@Jaden-y7e]

​4 Replies

[@leo-tj3jw]

Very good job! The way you line up the pictures is amazing

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much!

[@60SecondSpot]

I visited the place in 1999, the 55th anniversary of D-DAY. My wife and I met several soldiers there in a pub (English, Candian and American) and they shared some amazing stories of that day... and the following days. I will forever cherish those stories.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Outstanding, love it. My only wish is I met more veterans before they began departing

[@timalexander7758]

Another fantastic presentation. I want to get to Normandy someday. Thank you again from Alabama USA!!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome my friend. So glad you enjoyed the video 👍

[@kingsroad2310]

Amazing Rob, what a fascinating video. Take me back to Normandy right now!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you buddy. Really appreciate the kind feedback

[@jacquelinejohnson9447]

Excellent video. Thank you very much. Very informative and enjoyable. I'm looking forward to more. Thanks again.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it! I have many more to come 👍

[@malcolmwaddilove1822]

Amazing video , not seen anything like it before! A high price paid for our freedom,it must of been hell on earth for these men landing on the beaches.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you very much! I’ve got lots of videos just like this is you want to check them out

[@Peace2U-ec6es]

This is incredible! I will watch this several times over this weekend I'm sure!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Wow, thank you! So glad you enjoyed it

[@Majorrogerragland48]

yes to an hour.... I'd watch all day

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So glad people are enjoying these videos. Thank you

[@RM-ld3gc]

Dear Rob, congratulations on your D-Day series of videos. Your attention to detail is both amazing and rewarding I am sure, for the 'then and now' comparison photos that you have highlighted with the profound changes that have occurred over time. The many heroic actions for those enduring legacies that the men who fought on the beaches and in the fields of Normandy are all there to see with their historic moments and actions. I sincerely hope that what you produced here will be provided to schools and for future historical prosperity to allow people to see what so many gave to enable people today to enjoy the freedom and luxury that many today still do not have. As I, and many like me say, "Freedom is not free" and these brave men gave and paid the ultimate sacrifice for that freedom we have today. Lest we Forget......

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much for the very kind comment, I really appreciate the feedback. I’d love it if these videos were shown in classrooms. I keep the videos PC and try to be as balanced as possible in the hope they can appeal to everyone. Many many more to come!

[@tanker335]

Ten years ago my wife and her family visited France. She collected a jar of sand from Omaha Beach and bought a bottle of Calvados for me. Neither one made it home. The bag they were in was stolen from the hallway of the cruise ship they were on after it made port in Philly after they were instructed to set their luggage out to be collected and off loaded. She's convinced it was a crew member who did it. I almost cried.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That’s terrible! So sorry to hear that. Excuse for another visit?

[@tanker335]

@@thehistoryexplorer It's my turn this time!

[@jarmstrong2843]

Thank you so much for this video. I appreciate your time, effort and the very important history lesson. To me, this is a very emotional video since I had relatives who left their lives on Omaha Beach during the invasion. They lost their lives for ME and millions of other people around the world to preserve and restore their liberties. The US and its allies paid a very heavy toll when they landed at this beach and the others at Normandy. I hope the younger generations will appreciate the sacrifices all those young men fought and died for. We must earn what they have given us.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you! Really appreciate it

[@Sigrid121Angelsey]

This episode was wonderous, emotion wise. I felt myself really digging deep, trying to put my myself in their shoes. I don't think we will ever be able to show a worthy gratitude. Looking at the country now, we may have to fight for our freedom again. I must go to Normandy and Omaha Beach. After seeing the before and after pictures, I want to see these places for myself.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So glad you enjoyed it! I worked really hard on this one but it hasn’t gained the same traction as others.

[@adithompson199]

A wonderful historical 'Then and Now ' pictures, tour and commentary. Thanks you so much for this.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are very welcome!

[@Not_sheeple]

I visited all five beaches in August 2016. It was a bucket list tour of mine. It was a profound experience. Standing there, one cannot comprehend where you are and what went down. I feel sorrow and the greatest of respect for both sides.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It’s a wonderful place isn’t it, but also full of sadness in many ways. I love Normandy

[@Bombheadwire]

Ive just got back from Normandy this past weekend and visited all the beaches.. My grandfather was in the royal navy and was based mostly in Malta but was called to Normandy on D Day.. his ship bombard the defences. He was on the HMS Arethusa... I would recommend anyone to go and see what our fathers and grandfathers went through.. it has changed my out look on life.. these people are real hero's.. God bless the united kingdom and all its allies.. thank you

[@markcoetzer-rr3zi]

Great overall synopsis of the massive onslaught. What I would enjoy seeing from you is isolating each of the places you mention here into a self contained insert and digging deeper into the actual events or history if information is attainable. Your commentary and vids capture are great and keeps one constantly interested.

[@albertbentley56]

Love your videos they tell a story of death, valour, and human sacrifice, on a scale we just can’t comprehend but most of all freedom from captivity. Those brave, brave soldiers.also not to forget those brave French people caught up in it all.🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you my friend

[@Angela-ef5yj]

Thank you, we should never forget the sacrifices that all the armies made during WW2. I loved the then and now photos. Thank you.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much. I really appreciate the feedback

[@jamesm.3084]

Thank you. My son and I were there this past April and it was a most memorable trip. I really was amazed by WN62 and the story of Heinrich Severloh.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it! Interestingly the Severloh story is likely false, or certainly exaggerated

[@marionjohansson4235]

Amazing. Thank you, we will remember them.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

My pleasure 👍

[@brianturner5995]

Fantastic video...I am a passionate "then and now" photographer myself and many of the ones in this video brought tears to my eyes

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it! Keep taking those pictures!

[@daviso4954]

Thanks for the great photos and history lesson. My father was with the 38th calvary mechanized recon squadron. According to after action reports he landed on omaha beach in sector dog red shortly after the initial assualts. He fought in normandy, helped liberate Paris on august 25th. From there he and his unit made their way to Monschau germany where they dug in for the battle of the ardennes and battle of the bulge. He never spoke of his time and experiences in the war. I only learned of his exploits 28 years after his death. Back in 1944 he was a 36 yo corporal.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Outstanding. Thank you for sharing his story 🫡

[@francoisregis2155]

Watching band of brothers again and the longest day and seeing your video bring me tears thinking of the sacrifices these men did to bring freedom and liberate europe Such a great video reading comments from sons and grand sons of soldiers who fought bring another level

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much. Glad you enjoyed it Sir

[@graemeatkinson2138]

On August 14th I get to finally go to the Normandy D-Day region on an organised tour from Paris. An all day tour which starts with Omaha. Sir your videos are outstanding and my emotions are already climbing high as I watch your latest content. Merci from New Zealand.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome my friend

[@Norrie-jj2ve]

I leave Scotland on the 15th for a two week visit to Normandy...might bump into you....:)

[@graemeatkinson2138]

@@Norrie-jj2ve I would love to have 2 weeks out there but all I can muster is 1 full and very long day.

[@southernlife869]

Thanks for the video. They were men of men that stormed this beach god bless them and there sacrifices

[@byron2571]

Great to compare then and now ....I was there in September 2024... Amazing!

[@GailSiebuhr-de6sb]

When you see today's car driving through the older photo, there's a time warp in history from then till now. Another photo where the locals are talking to a soldier & at their feet is a dead soldier they the locals are probably respectful of him, but their lives are in their hands at that moment. So well done, love what you are doing.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you very much. Glad you enjoyed it 👍

[@dwg6977]

I do enjoy what ur doing.. history is very important... doesnt seem like the youth of today care... keep it up

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you, I will!

[@virginiasoskin9082]

I believe that if kids are taken as youngsters to visit historic places it brings history alive. I was a middle schooler in the early 1960s when the American Civil War was celebrating its centennial. We lived in Pennsylvania and so began our tour at Gettysburg and then visited many other battlefield parks in Virginia. We also visited Ft. Ticonderoga and Valley Forge. Pennsylvania kids were lucky -- we lived amidst history. Rather than going to Disneyworld or resorts or amusement parks every year, branch out and take your kids and yourselves to historic places -- battlefields, forts, presidential homes, national parks -- this is when kids hear the docents and see the actual items people owned and used -- uniforms, equipment, flags, Lincoln's hat, glasses, and so forth. Take them to the museums in Washington DC. I still love history for this reason -- American and also Russian. I read Nicholas and Alexandra by Robert Massie in college and since then have been an amateur interested in all things Russian -- the Romanovs, palaces, Faberge, literature, theater, etc. I was lucky enough to tour St. Petersburg about six years ago and that was a big dream come true of mine. Now it is impossible to return due to the political situation but we had a marvelous time.

[@uberrox452]

Your videos are amazing. The history of what our parents and grandparents went through should never be lost. Such a high sacrifice was made by British and American forces so that we would truly know freedom for our children.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much!

[@jonbeckleymorrisblues]

I've watched your channel a lot. Though I'm from the States I lived in Europe Belgium & Holland, and toured throughout Europe in the 80's, 90's as a roots/Blues musician. I especially liked playing in Germany, but the Dutch musicians still felt some bitterness towards the older Germans old enough to have fought in WW2. I really appreciate the courage it took for people like my parents to have stood up to Dictatorship in Europe at that time. But, it also happening again now all over the world... has happened many times since WW2....and that's just really bad.... Will there ever be another generation like those who fought in the 2nd World War? I sure hope so. Thanks for what you do.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

What an interesting comment, thanks for sharing. I hope you’ve enjoyed the channel so far, I’m trying to improve all the time

[@xanberg]

I'm now in Normandy with my father. Both veterans (New Guinea, Bosnia, Kosovo). Very special to be here and we went to some of the places in your video. Thank you!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome! Enjoy!

[@analystanalyst7652]

Cota wanted to hit OMAHA in the dark because they knew it was going to be bad. They had actually thought of bypassing it during the Cheltenham meetings, but they had to tie the beaches in. That was very good of you to show the crosses of Preston and Bob Niland at the end. You are a thoughtful man. Thank you.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the video. I love making these for people to see

[@bigred4592]

I visited Normandy in March...this video made me want to go back again...well done

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I’m going back again in a couple weeks. I seem to get there every couple of months! Love it

[@paddyblanche2505]

Wow great work bringing this to light .getting back next year .it surreal to look out along the beach’s to think this really happened .thank you for all your work putting this together 👏

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You’re very welcome Paddy and I’m glad you enjoyed it. Where are you going next?

[@pcj3405]

Thank you for your work! May they all never be forgotten. Again, Thank you!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

My pleasure! I love making these videos

[@Benilife444]

Thank you, Great job. I will be there to walk in my grandpa's footsteps.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Outstanding! That will be some experience

[@labeef1953]

Thank you so much for taking me to see this. It’s something I could never do. The then and and now photos were fascinating. Well done sir!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are so very welcome!

[@jasonmichael5894]

These videos are just amazing!!! You are truly talented for what you do. Thank you from a USAF Veteran.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome my friend

[@Ziggle]

This was incredible! This HAD to be a LOT of hard work! Your work is very great! Thank You for this video, Good Sir! Well Well Well Done!

[@Eternalamon]

...again great work... thank you.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome!

[@gangshan]

beautiful filming; the grassfield, the wildflowers in the breeze. juxposition of past and present.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So glad you enjoyed it. I did wonder if people would appreciate the flowers! Ha!

[@carolmankin7069]

I just want to thank you for all the amazing videos and photos you show. My son, as well as myself, love history and the photos of WW11 have a special place in my heart. My mom is originally from Brussels, Belgium and was a little girl during the war. My mom and my grandparents have told me many stories concerning the war. One is that as a young Belgian man the Germans took my grandfather, and many other young men, back to Germany to work in a factory. It was a Mercedes Benz factory and he worked making the cars like you see German officers being driven around in. He escaped once and was captured and taken back to the factory. They told him if he did it again they would kill him. He did manage to escape and the second time he made it back home successfully where he hid out for months in my grandparents apartment. He never came out until the Americans liberated Belgium. My mom grew up and married an American airman...my dad. She has been an American citizen since I was 16 years old. I'm 65 now and my mom is still living. Anyways, that was just a bit of history of my family. I'm looking forward to watching many more of your videos. Thank you.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome my friend. Thank you for sharing your story!

[@davidrobinson6353]

Could watch all day long so hour is no problem more the better for me Many Thanks for making these Videos so professionally 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you like them!

[@anibalbabilonia1867]

Wow! Those are some Amazing pictures!🙏🕊️🕯️❤️🫡🇺🇸🪖

[@thehistoryexplorer]

@@anibalbabilonia1867 glad you liked them!

[@pablopeter3564]

EXCELLENT ¡¡¡¡¡ Remarkable job of your. Congratulations and Thanks ¡¡¡ You paid tribute to those who fought and died during WW II. Greetings from Mexico City.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Hello and thank you for the kind feedback

[@georgekatsipodas1340]

Fantastic video mate, love all your work . I was there on dog green sector last year , its haunting to think what these brave men went through . Your parting words on this video some it well. Look forward to future material .

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it and there are plenty more videos to come. Thanks for the feedback 👍

[@eddywells5689]

Absolutely loved this waaaaaaay too short !!!!! Can you imagine sending videos like this back to shaef pre d day !!!!!! 💞💞💞👍💪🍺

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I actually wondered what the course of D Day would be if I could send the information I know today

[@EdwardNY8]

I really enjoyed this and am a big fan of then & now videos. Glad I found yours

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Welcome aboard! I have loads of videos explaining the then and now pictures I take

[@Cyndi-v1c]

Wow, absolutely incredible and allows us to see what the troops had to go through.😮😢

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@KellyJones-be9kn]

Thank you Sir for your hard work. This is a wonderful thing you do for the benefit of all

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I love doing it so it’s genuinely my pleasure to share these with you 👍

[@tonys4668]

Looking forward to your next walkthrough. Hopefully you have plans for many more locations along with pictures? Great pacing and commentary!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That's the plan! So glad you enjoy the video 👍

[@waterpongo6975]

Well done History Explorer! Very interesting video. Like others have said I would like longer videos too

[@thehistoryexplorer]

More to come! Thank you so much

[@MorrisGump]

A great video, and very well presented, I look forward to your future videos of similar content. Great stuff 👍🏻👍🏻

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you my friend. Many more on the way

[@Relayer56]

Wonderful video. One of the places I always wanted to visit. God bless the men who fought and paid a terrible price there.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I totally agree well said buddy

[@lynnhiggins7340]

Brilliant job, thank you for the time and effort bringing this fantastic video to us. Brilliant, thank you. I could listen to you all day. 🇬🇧💖

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@brianphillips9964]

Thanks!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you very much

[@saltiplumz2103]

You do a fantastic job of these video's. An hour would be perfect!!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I appreciate that, let me see what I can do!

[@Arvind-fs5zh]

Thank you for your efforts - excellent ! Yes, we must always remember them and their sacrifice. We can never take our freedoms for granted !

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you very much

[@colinpateman4891]

Fantastic series you just can't help feeling for those young men never be forget 😢

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you my friend

[@frankhenrylisborg7470]

Grand job. Thanks! Planning a trip with a mate to see the locations, and I think your video helped a lot.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad it was helpful! Let me know if you need any info

[@snydedon9636]

Thanks for all the videos you post. They are like short history lessons.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That’s a great way to look at it! So glad you enjoyed the video

[@anthonyo.460]

thanks for this. Definately could watch an hours worth. Best i've seen of then and now on youtube. Really enjoy the commentary.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Wow, thank you. Appreciate the feedback

[@freepilot7732]

Thank you for all your work.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It’s my genuine pleasure

[@patt.2066]

I love your capturing of such a tumultuous period in the survival of western civilization

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So glad you enjoyed the video, it means a lot to me

[@markienatnots9479]

Great video, thank you. I agree with what you said about the beaches and persons wanting them to remain hallowed ground. If they were keep the beaches closed and sacred they would have to do the same with most of Normandy. Keep up the great work. Cheers.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Absolutely, thanks for the feedback. So glad people enjoy this video

[@streamster54]

Great Video! Thank you for sharing your work🇺🇸👍

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thanks for watching!

[@pierredebug17]

Been there a few times with family and friends. Missed this year, but will go back again in 2025. Merci à nos alliés pour leur sacrifice.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It’s a very special place indeed

[@ademeris5754]

This is fantastic, very sad seeing before and after how bloody the Omaha beach was…. I’m very excited to come from Australia and actually see it my self, from movies and video games it’s absolutely incredible sights.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoy it! I make videos from all of these sites if you want to check them out

[@ariadneferreira2252]

This was phenomenal! Thank you so much!!! 🥰

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome!

[@JamesMorehouse-b3m]

I enjoyed it a lot.Thank you verytouch And I love the old pictures

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So glad you enjoyed it