Water's Edge

The Allies landed on the beaches of Normandy 67 years ago. Two months later, they would land in southern France. The war would end in May 1945.

Five years later, my parents and brothers would be living in France while Dad pursued a degree in French at the University of Montpellier.

These cement fortifications, placed on the beach near Palavas-les-Flots, originally were at the water's edge and mined to prevent allied landings.

September 1950. Jeannot at play on the beach.

My heart always skips a beat when I see this picture. A grim reminder of horror and innocence in one fell click.