 Hung Up
but only in effigy, a mannequin representing the plight of John Steele is hung on this church spire each anniversary of D-Day.
He and other members of the 101st Airborne found themselves landing in the church courtyard when they jumped into Ste. Mere Eglise on the morning of D-Day.
Steele was, in a way, lucky to have his chute snagged on the spire as most of the other men were gunned down as soon as they landed.
Steele feigned death even when a German shot him in the foot. Steele survived and was portrayed by actor Red Buttons in the movie "The Longest Day".
News of the D-Day Anniversary observation was covered by many news agencies.
The Irish Examiner had special interest since the 508th and other units had spent time in Ireland during their preparation for the coming invasion.
Lt. General John Norton (USA Ret.) lent a special insight during an interview and the commentary became even more interesting.
(Click here or on Irish Examiner logo to read the article) | 
Stained Glass
with brilliant sunshine has great coolers. (Photo courtesy Liz Coble)  Stained Glass
Inside the church has a beautiful design.
(Photo courtesy Liz Coble) | 
Mass En Masse
Hordes of churchgoers attended an outdoor Catholic Mass. Note the Steele effigy is seen from the square but he actually landed on he opposite side. It just shows better from this perspective. | 
Bi-Lingual Celebration
enabled both French and English speaking people to participate in the mass.
A French choir sang “America, the Beautiful” in English |
A Quieter Moment
Taken during a D-Day commemoration between decades, the church square has more flowers than people. Steele's effigy still graces the steeple however. (Photo courtesy Graham Lawson) | 
Favorite Spot
Bob Speers has had his photo taken in this location every time he has returned to Normandy and this year was no exception | 
New and Old
juxtaposition of a broadcast network's satellite dish and this ancient church seems to epitomize today's blend that has become Europe |
