Monday 8th June.
08:00 Continental breakfast at hotel
09:30 Having checked-out, the group left the hotel and journeyed south to Thury-Harcourt for a reception with the Mayor.
The 59th Staffordshire Infantry Division suffered 90% losses in the Battle for Thury-Harcourt in August 1944. Ralph Jackson was there and remembers the events well. On the 60th anniversary he and the 19 other remaining members of the 59th Division were awarded the Freedom of the Town of Thury Harcourt. It was a marvelous opportunity and privilege for our group to be able to go back to Thury-Harcourt with Ralph to share his thoughts and memories. The Mayor recognised Ralph immediately and had ensured that everyone would receive a very warm welcome. Local school children arrived to meet the veterans and sang God Save the Queen in their honour.
13:00 Packed lunch on route to Ouistreham. Members of the group lay wreathes and recited the exhortation at Fonteney-le -Pesnil and Hill 112.
17:00 Ferry departed Ouistreham and the group enjoyed their evening meal during the crossing.
22:00 Ferry arrived Portsmouth and Veterans made short journey to the Premier Inn Portsmouth Port Solent.
Tuesday 9th June.
09:00 A very hearty breakfast at the Portsmouth hotel.
10:00 The group checked-out of hotel and began their journey back home, arriving in Ellesmere Port at 17:00.
