BEDFORD, Va. – Fun and games are leading to an important lesson for several kids who spent most of Monday at the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford.
They’re the first of many this week to learn about the history of World War II.
From arts and crafts to trying the food and playing games, young campers like Nolan Hutchinson are being immersed in Normandy’s culture.
“We have been playing games and learning about the D-Day Invasion on Normandy to liberate the French,” Hutchinson said.
At 10 years old, it’s Hutchinson’s first time at camp. He came with his younger brother and says his favorite part of the trip was getting a tour of the Memorial.
“The purpose of the D-Day Memorial is to remind everyone what happened on June 6, 1944,” John Long, Director of Education, said.
As many from the World War II generation have passed on, Long stresses the importance of teaching others about the sacrifices that were made on the beaches of Normandy.
More than 4,000 allied troops gave their lives during the nation’s largest and most consequential invasion.
“It reminds us, every time, we hear the passing of another soldier, that it’s now our responsibility to tell their stories and keep the legacy alive,” Long said. “It’s why we exist.”
Something like this, even kids as young as 10 seem to understand the significance of.
“Thank you for serving our country,” Hutchinson said.