Day 6 September 19, 2008

This morning we departed Caen for the Bretteville sur Laize Cemetery, taking much the same route as the SD&G did. As per usual, the cemetery was beautifully manicured and extremely well maintained. There was a short ceremony where the piper played, the names of the Glens resting here was read, and the mayor of Cintheaux spoke and presented our 3 veterans with a special pin. We were allowed time to walk amongst the grave markers and read the names and inscriptions of the fallen Canadian soldiers - the youngest being only 15 years of age.

It was on to the the town of Urville to lay a wreath at the Glen's Memorial there. Many school children waving Canadian flags greeted us, along with the mayor of that town and several local residents. We were warmly greeted. I showed the button of Gramps to one woman, and even though she did not speak a word of English, wanted to have a photo taken of herself with John and I beside the Glen's Memorial.

Afterwards, a reception was held in their town hall where we enjoyed local baking, tasty sandwiches and wine. The residents were very hospitable and friendly and it was a heart-warming experience.

...... on to Magney, a tiny village where one of the stone homes displays a plaque installed just 2 years ago, dedicated to the Glen's. It was this very house that served as the Headquarters as the Glen's were 'dug in' around Magney.

The mayor of Urville attended a brief ceremony held in front of the house. The present day residents were in attendance.

Upon returning to our hotel in Caen, we did some laundry. Gotta be clean for tomorrow!!