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I was there in 2001 when the new museum opened. I was in the cafe att the counter waiting for 10-15 mins because she was talking to 2 old Para's. In the end she grudgingly took the order and said I'll bring it to you. When she got to the table her attitude changed immediately when she saw my grandfather, who was in No 4 Commando and landed on the Queen red section of Sword beach with a flamethrower and a Thompson M1a1. The commandos where there to relive the para's on Pegasus bridge, sat there in his green commando beret and a chest full of medals, she gave the money back straight away and said to my grandfather "You'll never pay for a drink here". The best thing was that little French kids about 7-8 were coming up to him and saying "Thank you for my liberty". I was so impressed that they teach the kids to be thankful for the sacrifice made for them. They definitely don't teach that here in the UK.
OK, I’ll start then. I wish to thank the Americans for my liberty! If it wasn’t for them, l would be speaking German!! As a side note, my forebears actually spoke Kernowick (Cornish) which was suppressed and wiped out by the English!! Where were you the then America?
Yes, we used to organise an Armed Forces event in north Devon, for over 5 or 6 years we used two schools, one in Bideford, Kingsley School, the other in Barnstaple, Pilton Community College. Kingsley couldn't do enough for us, and us for them. Pilton? They were also accommodating, but the lefty,liberal fascists amongst the staff did their utmost to close it down, have us removed, were abusive and tried to create strife. As mentioned the head, admin and majority of staff were great, it was the brainwashed nasty bigots who wanted to cause trouble. Vile people
I think you`ll find the old woman that gave Ewa a bollocking in the cafe is the daughter of the couple that lived there during liberation - shes a bit of a case - I`ve got an old mate who`s an Ex Para, he was in the cafe queuing for a coffee when two german tourists pushed in front of him - the old girl threw them both out and gave my mate and his friends free coffee and cake!! - Shes a beauty!!
Don’t know how this came on my feed but thoroughly enjoyed it. Lovely couple made this easy relaxing viewing. I’ve never owned a bike but this made me think about it! Pilgrims Choice👌🏻
The ‘old lady’ is non other than Madame Arlette Gondree herself. She can be quite stern but also lovely. She was 4 when we took the Bridge on D-Day. Her parents owned the cafe and were part of the French Resistance. Whatever was said in that cafe by the Germans was back in London within 24 hours. The pilot you mentioned actually went through the front window of his Horser Glider and landing in the pool being killed instantly. The soldier killed on the Bridge was LT Den Brotheridge, The first allied soldier killed by enemy soldiers on D-Day. He’s buried up in Ranville Cemetery. He was shot in the back of the neck as he turned to call his men across the bridge. Those were the Oxs and Bucks Light infant abs were led by the incredible Major Howard. I love everything Normandy and have visited many times. Thank you for videoing this very important area and major part in military history.
@@ontheroadadventure 😂😂no worries, been so many times, it’s a bit of a passion of mine. You’ll need a top box the size of a small saloon car to get me in though😂
My Dad Sidney Reeves was blown up defending the Bridge by a mortar lost part of his Elbow and Calf he was a Para his picture is on the wall of the Cafe from the day he only ever went once and met the Daughter who he met when she was a child in the Cafe I have a picture of him standing by the sign he was from Liverpool I think his nick name was Didge not sure why.
For anyone that still cares this is a fascinating eye opening must do pilgramage . I finally got round to it a few years ago & was so glad i did , it's the best way to pay your respect to those that bought our freedoms with their lives . Thankyou so much gentlemen 🎉
Arlette Gondree was 4 years old when British paratroopers captured the area around the cafe (including securing the bridge) ahead of the D-Day invasion. I think she deserves a little bit more respect than simply being referred to as 'some old women'. If you approach people and talk to them you generally find they are extremely co-operative. It tends to be the way these days that a younger generation think they can just walk in somewhere and start taking photos of people. It may be a cafe but it's also her home.
@@ontheroadadventure I do appreciate that you were a little naive, but it would have made sense when you went inside to have asked a member of staff first if it would be ok to photograph inside the cafe, rather than just assume you could snap away.
Thank you for helping to keep alive the memory of something we should never forget. Acts of insurmountable courage which ensured peace and liberty could be reclaimed. Their stories, and the warnings of the horror and destruction of war they portray, have never been as needed as they are in today’s world. Thank you again 🤝 < Lest we forget >
To be fair she wasnt rude, just enforcing the "No photo" rule which is her choice and right. She is actually a lovely lady and I have had a few conversations with her when I took the Sea Cadet ship there a few years ago.
Mme Gondrée is a legend and she always looks after servicemen and veterans - retelling her story and memories of that night. She is incredibly generous with us - opening early when I arranged a battlefield tour there 20 years ago and offering us all free coffee. I’m sorry your experience was different but I can only say that, after all those years, she still appreciated what those first soldiers landing on D-Day did and has repaid that debt many times over the years subsequently.
@@bluewendytube No Mme appreciates polite paying customers who abide by her no photography rules, and 80 years later is still working off her debt of gratitude to her liberators as are many French survivors. It doesn’t matter how it is written, in pen on a scrap of paper or on a custom made sign, the words are no less valid, though maybe not as prominent as they could have been.
@@grahamstretch6863 NO, we weren't taking photos, were beyond polite and yet she was one of the rudest people I have ever met. If Mme resents being polite to people who are equally polite and who wish to visit the cafe but are not connected to the armed forces, (and who provide her with a salary), perhaps she should consider retirement!
Yes i have to agree, the only real problem here was mis communication, the small sign was not seen by us and everyone else who has the same experience, shame really it could be resolved easily and everyone would leave happy
Really enjoying your videos. 🏍 😃 😎 At Pegasus Bridge. Madame Gondré's family own the house ( now the cafe) on the night when Pegasus Bridge was liberated. The little old lady ( Madame Gondré) would have been 10 years old then and maybe watched the paratroopers and gliders landing. She has seen alot. We have been a few times and once we spoke to her and engaged with her. Lovely Lady. Still a fiesty lady then. 😊
I really want to thank you for posting this video. Ive seen videos of the Normandy areas taken from cars but you filming from motorcycles gives an unimpeded look at the area. Also the use of a wide angle lens really gives me a feeling of being able to see so much at one time, that I have gotten a sense of place in the area. Not only is it a beautiful place but so much history to go with it. It helps greatly that you two are so affable that I feel like I am with friends. This has been a very different and satisfying viewing experience. Again, thank you so much! So I decided to subscribe because of a variety of reasons. One thing I have really enjoyed is seeing the buildings that were there when the invasion took place in their surroundings is the most informative video, almost like looking at a map where you can understand what is around you. I just can't impress upon you how nice this has been. So now I am off to look at your videos page! Again, thank you!
You are very welcome, the first few videos of this tour is in Normandy if you go to the page and go to playlists and you’ll find the All in tour so you can watch in order 👍
Thanks for joining us, Normandy is a fascinating place to tour and explore, sometimes it’s hard to see and understand what happened here but it’s important we all go. We will Remember them.
Richard Todd, the actor, landed at Pegasus Bridge during the Op. He later played his boss, Maj John Howard, in The Longest Day. Theres a surreal shot where he says something to the guy playing himself!
Best research he did not land at the bridge . He landed further away and walked to the bridge. The Ox and Bucks Light infantry landed by glider at the bridge
thank you for the tour. this Aussie is too disabiled to journey that far at 81 yrs, BUT your vid allows me to sight=see, so, keep up your efforts because I enjoy seeing the world, Thansks & hoo roo, Tomo.......
Another excellent video. Rich you mentioned that the area has been regenerated. A good few years ago, before the release of Saving Private Ryan, a customer of mine became interested in Normandy, so much so he bought a property there. He visited all the museums and memorials and other places locals told him about. He said that after the release of the film and with the massive increase in the number of visitors, lots of places were cleaned up and he said some of the more graphic exhibits in the museums were removed from display. His feeling was that much of the original impact from certain places had gone, removed in an effort not to shock some visitors.
Yes someone else told me something similar to that too. How on earth did we get to making war look pretty enough so as not to offend anyone? It should shock people in my opinion
@@ontheroadadventure that was exactly what my customer thought. He described several exhibits and although they would have been pretty gritty, they also added a very individual and human aspect to the displays.
Another great video. Its very humbling to visit battle sites, where so many men from all over the world fought and lost their lives to save OUR futures.
Hi I'm Loving your videos . 👋👍 You mentioned tent pegs . With you going to Spain and ground was so hard iv been out an brought my self some hevey duty pegs from Aldi . I'm hoping they will do the trick for when I get to go camping .👍
The old lady that told you off is Arlette Gondree, she was four years old when British troops entered her family's cafe in Bénouville, Normandy in June 1944, making them the first family to be liberated from German control.
I enjoy watching your videos no matter where you are or what you are doing . Take care of EWA she is a jem and when you get old like me you will look back at your adventures with fond memories . All the best from Canada .
Been there a few times on the bike, last time in 2015. Good to hear Arlette is still going, she has always been very welcoming. Clearly, your decision to ignore the notice wound her up.
The issue was not seeing the small hand written note on the wall with all the other stuff. Obviously if the no photo request had been seen Ewa would not have taken a photo 🤷♂️
@@ontheroadadventure Must be about 15 years now . Im 64 and felt my riding edge going but something comfortable and fun like the bikes you both ride might get me going again .
Anyone looking through the comments who haven’t subscribed please do as they really deserve more. Great video as usual I think later this year I’m going to do that trip.
Oh no, why am I subscribing to another motorcycle UA-cam channel, like Itchi Boots. I don t like motor cycles. I like cars, I like road bicycles. You motor cycle guys are just great, I just love the content : ) I had to ride 65 k on my vintage Peugeot road bike on D-Day June 6, to get from the road block 10k south of Bayeux, to Gold beach where I wanted to be that day. It was epic. Gold Beach, Arromaches, Port En Besin, the best bicycling weather I could hope for. A once in a life experience.
a bit of research into the cafe and its role and history that old lady is held in highest regard by former and serving british forces as a small girl she and her family welcomed the men into their home and still do to you its a cafe to her its her home and a shrine to the sacrifice of both french and allied personel have fun stay safe
Just started following your journey, you were lucky with that tree.A couple of years ago we went to the Peloponnese in Greece via ferry from Ancona to Patras.Great for motorcycle tenting.Bit older than you guys 76 and 65 riding Triumph Tiger.
Once more you did it with justice and honour. Interesting the prices you give on things. With conversions considered, those prices are pretty much what we pay in aus, any day. The cost of living hey. Anyway, I'm really enjoying your experiences and how you go about it. I really like how the camera changes pending who is talking. Great feature. Cheers.
Thanks so much, we really enjoy the process of filming but the work is in the editing, we each love the creative process of making these videos and it’s amazing people seem to like them 👍
Awww ya missed the small little concrete ‘bollards’ on the other bank of the river which shows how close the gliders landed next to Pegasus bridge… I went there in 2006 and met the old lady who was running the cafe, she was 4 years old when the allies liberated, sadly passed away a good few years back, I need go back to the Normandy landings myself…..it’s been a while, great video again guys👍👍👍👍
Have you looked at getting an ACSI Camping Card for Europe? We saved a fortune at campsites on a recent trip. Great to see the respect you are giving for those who served in the past. In 2019, I stood on Omaha beach at the waters edge and turned around to face inland and tried to imagine the scene there just 75 years before as the troops landed and made their way ashore. Impossible of course to bring to life the horrors of that time.
Nice video. Having done a trip to Normandy on the bikes from the Isle of Man 30 years back for the 50th Anniversary, i can recommend cooking some nice steak for your tea. Amazing what you can knock up with a little gas stove while camping. We stayed at one campsite for the week and traveled out each day, as it is a right pain taking the tent up and down. Enjoy the rest of your trip.
We would like to stay places a couple days at a time for this reason but this time we are going to be covering some real distance so need to keep moving on
All the static munitions and tanks on display look like they were freshly painted, everywhere is kept immaculate! You cook better food on that camping stove than I do in my kitchen!! 🤣
We feel like the standard of camp cooking has gone down hill on this trip but it is just so time consuming… we are being somewhat more inventive this time with not always great results 😂
We find most places in France are kept up to a pretty good standard, some of the smaller towns and villages are amazing with just really good 'public realm' works. I think they tend to bond more and use open spaces more than we do here in the UK. We've been going for years and stumbled into many a village fete, car show, farmers harvest festival etc. And all those car boots!
Just dropping a note to say i apricate all the videos and say that i haven't watched any of the French ones yet as i am downloading them to binge watch on the ferry back to the UK
My father was a Normandy veteran going ashore on Gold beach on D+4, we were there for the commemoration for somewhen around the 70th anniversary. My how thinks have changed since then, it is so much more developed, with railings and visitor centres, I truly appreciate that I got to see so much of it in its raw state before the development. I appreciated your comment on the Germans being involved, we went to Pont du Hoc for dawn on one of our outings, I was looking out from one of the bunkers and a little fishing boat appeared out of the twilight mist, I can’t imagine what a German soldier would have felt seeing 1 then 3, 5, 10, 20… boats coming out of the mist. It must have been truly terrifying. For those that may feel the need to vilify the Germans, a good many of them were ordinary soldiers following orders believing that they were fighting for the right side, I have met several German veterans through my dad and one was even joking about about how, as he and my dad were in the same area at the same time it could have been my dad that shot his arm off, saying it was the best thing that happened to him as it got him out of that bloody war!
Great video , Ioved it, a great insight into the area, Mid August my mate and I are off to do the same Normandy trip for two weeks, camping at a lovely looking camp site at the top of Omaha Beach...this trip has been on my bucket list for maybe 30 years...:)
@@ontheroadadventure So sorry for the late reply...wow!! I need a holiday after that trip...what a place, with such lovely folks....we visited almost all the museums along the beaches, and it turned out the curator of the Pegasus Bridge ( Nicholas) is an old friend of my mates..they hadnt seen each other for 30 years....in Bolton !!! ..what a trip...:)
The old lady in the cafe, her grandfather was the original owner of the house when the battle took place, she also told me off for ordering a Coke Zero, she said you shouldn’t drink that rubbish, it’s full of bad ingredients, let’s say her customer relation’s needs a bit of work…..again guys, nice video, it’s a shame you didn’t see the British memorial at sword beach, it was so close to where you were, and probably the best one by far along with the American one……perhaps next year you can do the First World War cemetery’s, museums etc and the Menin Gate in Ypres Belgium, every night they do the last post…….that’s really moving😢
Wow, we would love to go see that. There’s so much history here, I’d love to do a tour with an expert to show us all the best locations and be full of knowledge. We will be back for sure
Georges the original owner, was Madame Arlette's father. She was hiding in the cafe basement with her elder sister Georgette, when the British arrived on D-Day.
That’s gratitude for you lol. It’s really sobering the relative peace we enjoy. You were think we would have learnt our lessons and never allow it again 😢
Exactly! One would think lessons have been learned, but I look and see the direction the world is potentially going in and I come to the conclusion that we've learned nothing in 80 odd years!! Instead of getting better, we're getting worse!😟
It is such a shame you seemed to miss Ver sur Mer where the new British memorial is, the town is beautiful and the people incredibly friendly. We went back with my dad and after a few false starts managed to locate the exact exit he took from the beach on D+4, he walked down it to the beach and described every detail about the road leading away including the locations of bunkers which were still there amongst the houses up the hill. We attended the ceremony just across the road from the Sexton self propelled gun on many occasions with my dad and the other attending veterans receiving their medals from the mayor.
Top. Even though been many times, enjoyed your view of it. Would recommend a lightweight cover gor your bike when parking up. Always carry one and leave the bike iut of sight - out of mind. Think it cost me an Ayrton from Lidl. Admittedly some years ago. Good watch, team. Ride safe 👍
@@ontheroadadventure Wouldn't miss your adventures. While I'm going through a rough patch (mental health from the cancer) you guys give me a little escape. Bloody UK weather driving me crazy as much as anything and need to get my head sorted and have an overseas trip
The Bike is the best healer my friend, the old advise of being outside is as correct as it is right. We wish you all the best bud and glad we can help you in a little way
The Mulberry Harbours you saw at Arromanches were built and tested near Wigan-on the Solway Firth and Loch Ryan in Scotland then towed down the West coast in time for D - Day. Another great video guys. Ewa there is a large Polish War Cemetery near Monte Casino in Italy which unfortunately on my visit to Monte Casino was closed again a massive loss of life by both the Allied Forces and German soldiers.
Normandy is very beautiful further inland too. The roads around Suisse Normandy, as it is known, are nearly empty and perfect for cycling and motorbiking.
I was in southern Spain a couple years ago trying to hammer pegs into that hard ground we all know of, An old Spanish chap strolled up and gave me half a dozen 6" nails, they worked a treat.
Delta Ground pegs are the best, the windier it gets the deeper they anchor. They are quite big but you can probably get away with only 4-6. They use them on temporary helipads so brilliant pegs
The “Old lady” is a lovely friendly person so long as you follow the rules. She was a very young child on the day the bridge was taken and hid in the now Cafe’s basement. Her parents helping the Airbourne troops who landed there. I would strongly advise reading more about D Day, watch some documentaries to get a better idea of what went on. There is so much more to see in Normandy. The museums have so many stories of individual heroics and tragedy.
met the lady in question ourselves back in April this year. She also told me off for taking a photo of my wife sitting at inside table, nevertheless we had a great conversation with her and she wrapped up our souvenirs elegantly and with lovely bow. We will be going back for more coffee and that delicious cake thats for sure.
Czesc... Lovely Jaguar at 9:50 Was that an old H-D Sturgis at 11:00? Another superb video, and once again very thought provoking. I've never been abroad on a bike but this certainly looks like a good smaller tour to start on.... Meanwhile, typical Polish woman...totally disobeys the rules...🤣 Ride safe...looking forward to the next episode.
Haha Ewa does not take any crap from anyone lol. We are in the Black forest Germany right now and there must be some sort of rally on, the place is full of immaculate vintage high end cars, youll see some amazing ones go by in coming episodes. Normandy is the perfect tour to do from the uk, and one i promise youll never forget
@@ontheroadadventure Ooh!!! Please feel free to get some footage of the cars, I do like a nice car (should I admit they are a bigger attraction than motorcycles!)? Meanwhile you sure don't hang about. Have you managed to get any nice gateaux?
We try to record cars that really stand out to us but im not a fan of when people pretend to be enthusiastic on things they know nothing about, we dont do fake... Yes we are moving along on this tour, we are going to show you all many things and places on this tour....
We did all that a few weeks ago, very informative! If you you've not been head for orodor sur glane, which was destroyed by the SS just after D day. The town has been preserved as a memorial, sad but true! 😢
Went over on a visit with my old Comrades of the Devonshire and Dorsets, We had about 13 old standards Madame Gondre saw an old Devonshire standard and recognised the Embroidered Badge almost at once . We had a photo taken with her and had a good yap . The Devonshires 12th Battalion were airborne troops, gliders . Marvelous lady .❤❤
Hiya myself and a friend visited pegasus bridge ,the old lady you referred to is the daughter of the original owners, who I believe was there when they got liberated ,she was four at the time ….. keep up the good work,really appreciate your vlogging
Peggy Bridge is the spiritual home of the UK Airborne Forces in Normandy. The old woman you referred to is Madame Gondree, and as you say, there are notices!
Love your vids guys. It’s made me want to go back now and see the area in more detail. Did you know that a fuel line to supply the troops ran up the river by Pegasus bridge all the way from the Isle of Wight?
Lmao I'm that old man...one key at a time. You have know idea how long it takes me to send you a comment on your videos. So appreciate you sharing a very important part of our history.
Been there plenty of times, I moved to France and back again years ago. Used to chat to the vets at the 4th July, they all had stories to tell, watched their best mates get blown to pieces right next to them, but had to blank it and carry on. Harrowing but they took it on the chin. They never described themselves as brave heroes, they were young teenage boys and terrified, many drowned being pushed off the landing craft carrying back packs and weapons, they were too short in deep water. Many were shot while in the craft, and many more never made it up the beach. The guy manning the machine gun strafing the beach was himself a teenager, he said that troops kept coming and he just kept shooting. The barrels got hot and took 45 seconds to change, it was that gap that allowed some allied troops to get up the beach once they figured it out. I know the guy who makes the ghost soldiers, thousands of washers welded together, they are works of art. The lady at the Pegasus Bridge cafe is a legend, no one messes with her, she is a true lady. There is a huge amount to see, you need to spend a week there really. The WW1 stuff around Arras in the east is amazing as well. Interestingly, there is no footage from Omaha, the film was sent to the labs to be developed and they messed up, destroying it all.
You guys are making a damn good fist of this D-Day history visit. Glad you are enjoying it as we are. Only downside are the French rip off food prices. 😊👍🏍
I’m gutted for you that you missed what I think is the number 1 place to visit , British Normandy Memorial and the standing with giants memorial. The ladies of the Pegasus bridge are famous for there very unwelcoming approach 😂😂😂😂 and they are a bit pricey too. The next village down from Pegasus is Cormelles Le royal is twinned with my village Combe Martin. I wild camped in the woods near to where you camped and was visited by a wild bore in the night. I always say to folk when they visit Normandy is do your research as it gives you a much better understanding of what your looking at. Happy travels guys, looking forward to the next vlog.
Mme A. Gondree is a gem and deserves the utmost respect. There are signs all over not to take pictures. It's all personal stuff from various visitors through the years as valued memories which she shares with those who come to visit. Her house, her rules. She's famous in many places, just ask any old Brummie who she is 😉
@ontheroadadventure Mostly, yes. Memorabilia thru the years. She can be a bit blunt at times (I've been on the end of it!) but it's her stuff and her home.
Before you go out and buy "better tent pegs" try double pegging. Use two pegs in each loop at slightly different angles. It work for myself in really windy conditions, but my tent is much lower to the ground.
The 'tight squeeze' at 14:37 is a German emplacement for a single machine gun, it is a classic part of German defenses all over Normandy and is called a 'Tobruk'.. Yes, you did miss out on going to 'Memorial Pegasus' there's loads of original items from the time of the Airborne Landings at Pegasus Bridge.. Madame Arlette Gondree is a very stern and formidable lady, I think she was three years old at the time of the landings.. The Airborne soldier you mentioned who was killed on Pegasus Bridge (Lieutenant Dennis Brotheridge, the first allied soldier to be killed by enemy action on D-Day) is buried in the Churchyard at Ranville, which I think is the small town where you went to the supermarket to get your Dauphinois potatoes and Kebab sausages !..
another great show 👍 fair play Eva for going off on your own for shopping, cant believe you let a woman go shopping on her own rich, hope she never had your card 😂
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I was there in 2001 when the new museum opened. I was in the cafe att the counter waiting for 10-15 mins because she was talking to 2 old Para's. In the end she grudgingly took the order and said I'll bring it to you. When she got to the table her attitude changed immediately when she saw my grandfather, who was in No 4 Commando and landed on the Queen red section of Sword beach with a flamethrower and a Thompson M1a1. The commandos where there to relive the para's on Pegasus bridge, sat there in his green commando beret and a chest full of medals, she gave the money back straight away and said to my grandfather "You'll never pay for a drink here".
The best thing was that little French kids about 7-8 were coming up to him and saying "Thank you for my liberty". I was so impressed that they teach the kids to be thankful for the sacrifice made for them. They definitely don't teach that here in the UK.
Much respect 🫡
Indeed she always made time for the vets, i also noticed whenever i met her she always looked very elegant and smart.
OK, I’ll start then. I wish to thank the Americans for my liberty! If it wasn’t for them, l would be speaking German!! As a side note, my forebears actually spoke Kernowick (Cornish) which was suppressed and wiped out by the English!! Where were you the then America?
Brilliant post, thank you.
Yes, we used to organise an Armed Forces event in north Devon, for over 5 or 6 years we used two schools, one in Bideford, Kingsley School, the other in Barnstaple, Pilton Community College. Kingsley couldn't do enough for us, and us for them. Pilton? They were also accommodating, but the lefty,liberal fascists amongst the staff did their utmost to close it down, have us removed, were abusive and tried to create strife. As mentioned the head, admin and majority of staff were great, it was the brainwashed nasty bigots who wanted to cause trouble. Vile people
I think you`ll find the old woman that gave Ewa a bollocking in the cafe is the daughter of the couple that lived there during liberation - shes a bit of a case - I`ve got an old mate who`s an Ex Para, he was in the cafe queuing for a coffee when two german tourists pushed in front of him - the old girl threw them both out and gave my mate and his friends free coffee and cake!! - Shes a beauty!!
I cant wait to be old enough to get away with being rude lol
@@ontheroadadventureI am…..tee hee. 😊
She's horrible and so is her overpriced food. Gave me terrible food poisoning and a bollocking for taking a picture.
That’ll be Arlette Gondree, who was four at the time of the assault on Pegasus Bridge. I’ve met her a number of times and she’s a dream 👍🏼
Don’t know how this came on my feed but thoroughly enjoyed it. Lovely couple made this easy relaxing viewing. I’ve never owned a bike but this made me think about it! Pilgrims Choice👌🏻
The ‘old lady’ is non other than Madame Arlette Gondree herself. She can be quite stern but also lovely. She was 4 when we took the Bridge on D-Day. Her parents owned the cafe and were part of the French Resistance. Whatever was said in that cafe by the Germans was back in London within 24 hours.
The pilot you mentioned actually went through the front window of his Horser Glider and landing in the pool being killed instantly. The soldier killed on the Bridge was LT Den Brotheridge, The first allied soldier killed by enemy soldiers on D-Day. He’s buried up in Ranville Cemetery. He was shot in the back of the neck as he turned to call his men across the bridge. Those were the Oxs and Bucks Light infant abs were led by the incredible Major Howard.
I love everything Normandy and have visited many times. Thank you for videoing this very important area and major part in military history.
Next time we go we need to put you into our top box to be our tour guide!
@@ontheroadadventure 😂😂no worries, been so many times, it’s a bit of a passion of mine. You’ll need a top box the size of a small saloon car to get me in though😂
@@theblackcountrybikerMe too. I get the ferry from Poole quite often 👍🏻
That’s ok we will need a support truck for our kit soon too!
My Dad Sidney Reeves was blown up defending the Bridge by a mortar lost part of his Elbow and Calf he was a Para his picture is on the wall of the Cafe from the day he only ever went once and met the Daughter who he met when she was a child in the Cafe I have a picture of him standing by the sign he was from Liverpool I think his nick name was Didge not sure why.
For anyone that still cares this is a fascinating eye opening must do pilgramage . I finally got round to it a few years ago & was so glad i did , it's the best way to pay your respect to those that bought our freedoms with their lives . Thankyou so much gentlemen 🎉
We couldn’t agree more. Everyone should go to Normandy and see these places with your own eyes
Arlette Gondree was 4 years old when British paratroopers captured the area around the cafe (including securing the bridge) ahead of the D-Day invasion. I think she deserves a little bit more respect than simply being referred to as 'some old women'. If you approach people and talk to them you generally find they are extremely co-operative. It tends to be the way these days that a younger generation think they can just walk in somewhere and start taking photos of people. It may be a cafe but it's also her home.
Sadly not the outcome any of us wanted. We would love to have heard her stories but Ewa was given no opportunity. No problem to request no photos…
@@ontheroadadventure I do appreciate that you were a little naive, but it would have made sense when you went inside to have asked a member of staff first if it would be ok to photograph inside the cafe, rather than just assume you could snap away.
Thank you for helping to keep alive the memory of something we should never forget. Acts of insurmountable courage which ensured peace and liberty could be reclaimed. Their stories, and the warnings of the horror and destruction of war they portray, have never been as needed as they are in today’s world. Thank you again 🤝
< Lest we forget >
Well said.
Something we certainly shouldn't forget, and yet all over the world that's exactly what governments are doing 😢
And now SHITSAIN 🇬🇧 supports Nazis in Ukraine genocide in Gaza and the SAS trains terrorists world wide.
@@kevindarkstar We must not allow them to do it to us again
@@ontheroadadventure I sincerely hope that they don't
To be fair she wasnt rude, just enforcing the "No photo" rule which is her choice and right. She is actually a lovely lady and I have had a few conversations with her when I took the Sea Cadet ship there a few years ago.
Nice one, she is a interesting lady
I am learning so much following you two, anyway another great video. Thanks
Thanks for joining us on the road 🫡
Mme Gondrée is a legend and she always looks after servicemen and veterans - retelling her story and memories of that night. She is incredibly generous with us - opening early when I arranged a battlefield tour there 20 years ago and offering us all free coffee. I’m sorry your experience was different but I can only say that, after all those years, she still appreciated what those first soldiers landing on D-Day did and has repaid that debt many times over the years subsequently.
Yes much respect to her for sure. We all have bad days and grumpy moments
Sounds like Mme resents polite, paying customers, unless you’re an ex serviceman.
@@bluewendytube
No Mme appreciates polite paying customers who abide by her no photography rules, and 80 years later is still working off her debt of gratitude to her liberators as are many French survivors.
It doesn’t matter how it is written, in pen on a scrap of paper or on a custom made sign, the words are no less valid, though maybe not as prominent as they could have been.
@@grahamstretch6863 NO, we weren't taking photos, were beyond polite and yet she was one of the rudest people I have ever met. If Mme resents being polite to people who are equally polite and who wish to visit the cafe but are not connected to the armed forces, (and who provide her with a salary), perhaps she should consider retirement!
Yes i have to agree, the only real problem here was mis communication, the small sign was not seen by us and everyone else who has the same experience, shame really it could be resolved easily and everyone would leave happy
Really enjoying your videos. 🏍 😃 😎
At Pegasus Bridge. Madame Gondré's family own the house ( now the cafe) on the night when Pegasus Bridge was liberated. The little old lady ( Madame Gondré) would have been 10 years old then and maybe watched the paratroopers and gliders landing. She has seen alot. We have been a few times and once we spoke to her and engaged with her. Lovely Lady. Still a fiesty lady then. 😊
She certainly seems to be a character!
I visited in 2023 and yes you’re spot on. She’s feisty if you get on the wrong side of her !
@@tomolitravels2276 😂
an enjoyable accounting of your trek over those WWll sites, you two...thank you for taking us along...be well as you go on!
Thanks John, glad to have you with us
I really want to thank you for posting this video. Ive seen videos of the Normandy areas taken from cars but you filming from motorcycles gives an unimpeded look at the area. Also the use of a wide angle lens really gives me a feeling of being able to see so much at one time, that I have gotten a sense of place in the area. Not only is it a beautiful place but so much history to go with it. It helps greatly that you two are so affable that I feel like I am with friends. This has been a very different and satisfying viewing experience. Again, thank you so much! So I decided to subscribe because of a variety of reasons. One thing I have really enjoyed is seeing the buildings that were there when the invasion took place in their surroundings is the most informative video, almost like looking at a map where you can understand what is around you. I just can't impress upon you how nice this has been. So now I am off to look at your videos page! Again, thank you!
You are very welcome, the first few videos of this tour is in Normandy if you go to the page and go to playlists and you’ll find the All in tour so you can watch in order 👍
Awful as it was, the sacrifice should never be forgotten. Thanks for showing respect.
Thanks for joining us, Normandy is a fascinating place to tour and explore, sometimes it’s hard to see and understand what happened here but it’s important we all go.
We will Remember them.
Very strong and compelling probably quite upsetting for u guys great filming thank u for the brilliant story’s x x
Thank you so much for your videos, really professional and informative! And the food always looks so good!
Our pleasure! Thanks for joining us on the channel 👍
Richard Todd, the actor, landed at Pegasus Bridge during the Op. He later played his boss, Maj John Howard, in The Longest Day. Theres a surreal shot where he says something to the guy playing himself!
I need to watch this again!
He parachuted in with 7th Para, and reinforced Major Howard. His boss was Lt Colonel Pine-Coffin.
Best research he did not land at the bridge . He landed further away and walked to the bridge. The Ox and Bucks Light infantry landed by glider at the bridge
You 2 are absolutely fabulous
Thanks so much for joining us 👍👍
thank you for the tour. this Aussie is too disabiled to journey that far at 81 yrs, BUT your vid allows me to sight=see, so, keep up your efforts because I enjoy seeing the world, Thansks & hoo roo, Tomo.......
Glad your with us Jim, we would love to come see your world one day too
Made me laugh as you went by the bench and I said go and pinch it then you did just that 😂
Great minds think alike!
Wot you need chaps is a ten penny nail, also known as a ten penny spike, galvanised. Will outlive your tent. Works splendidly.
We have since been to decathlon and bought some pegs for 7 Euro that turned out be the best yet!
Like your style with the bench.lol
Thanks! 😆
If you ever go back the Museum and the Memorials where the gliders landed are worth a visit.
Another excellent video. Rich you mentioned that the area has been regenerated. A good few years ago, before the release of Saving Private Ryan, a customer of mine became interested in Normandy, so much so he bought a property there. He visited all the museums and memorials and other places locals told him about. He said that after the release of the film and with the massive increase in the number of visitors, lots of places were cleaned up and he said some of the more graphic exhibits in the museums were removed from display. His feeling was that much of the original impact from certain places had gone, removed in an effort not to shock some visitors.
Yes someone else told me something similar to that too. How on earth did we get to making war look pretty enough so as not to offend anyone? It should shock people in my opinion
@@ontheroadadventure that was exactly what my customer thought. He described several exhibits and although they would have been pretty gritty, they also added a very individual and human aspect to the displays.
Why would we dress war down to try to make it look more acceptable? Madness
“I panicked and got sausage again” 😂. You did great Ewa
Can’t go wrong!
Another great vid guys.loverly choice of places.cud of eaten that myself mmmm.keep going guys 👍
Cheers kelvin
Yet another great episode for viewers to watch and enjoy, with all the interesting facts added.
Thanks so much bud, glad you liked it
Another great video. Its very humbling to visit battle sites, where so many men from all over the world fought and lost their lives to save OUR futures.
It really is. It’s a strange thing that only takes full effect on you when you are stood there looking and seeing, understanding with your own eyes
Yet another top video done really well with respect and humour, brilliant and keep it up 👍👍
Thanks so much we really wanted to get the balance right of having a laugh and being respectful
Such a treat watching your videos. Can’t wait to go on tour again 😁🍻
It’s addictive isn’t it, the more you see and do the more you want!
Great episode once again. Very moving at the appropriate time….and funny at others, French cheese v Cheddar, healthy eating etc🌭🧀
Thanks bud, healthy eating is not going well at the moment!
Hi I'm Loving your videos . 👋👍 You mentioned tent pegs . With you going to Spain and ground was so hard iv been out an brought my self some hevey duty pegs from Aldi . I'm hoping they will do the trick for when I get to go camping .👍
The old lady that told you off is Arlette Gondree, she was four years old when British troops entered her family's cafe in Bénouville, Normandy in June 1944, making them the first family to be liberated from German control.
She has some incredible stories to tell, we would love to of heard them
I enjoy watching your videos no matter where you are or what you are doing . Take care of EWA she is a jem and when you get old like me you will look back at your adventures with fond memories . All the best from Canada .
Always 👍 Thanks so much for joining us both
I just love the roads in Brittany, so pretty and tidy. Would love to ride it one day! In the meantime, driving is also very pleasurable.
How come you have t ridden it yet?
Been there a few times on the bike, last time in 2015. Good to hear Arlette is still going, she has always been very welcoming. Clearly, your decision to ignore the notice wound her up.
The issue was not seeing the small hand written note on the wall with all the other stuff. Obviously if the no photo request had been seen Ewa would not have taken a photo 🤷♂️
My uncle was at Arnhem.. 1st Airborne REME…. swam the river under gunfire and is featured in a book… “With Spanner’s Decending”
Wow, now that sounds epic. Everyman with a different story, they must all be remembered
Great video , very respectful , makes me want a Bike again ...Thanks.
How long have you been without a bike? How come you gave it up?
@@ontheroadadventure Must be about 15 years now . Im 64 and felt my riding edge going but something comfortable and fun like the bikes you both ride might get me going again .
Anyone looking through the comments who haven’t subscribed please do as they really deserve more. Great video as usual I think later this year I’m going to do that trip.
Thanks so much Don, We really do appreciate your support ☺️
Where do you subscribe on the post.
Oh no, why am I subscribing to another motorcycle UA-cam channel, like Itchi Boots. I don t like motor cycles. I like cars, I like road bicycles. You motor cycle guys are just great, I just love the content : ) I had to ride 65 k on my vintage Peugeot road bike on D-Day June 6, to get from the road block 10k south of Bayeux, to Gold beach where I wanted to be that day. It was epic. Gold Beach, Arromaches, Port En Besin, the best bicycling weather I could hope for. A once in a life experience.
You rode your push bike to the beaches to watch on D day?!
Not a biker, but enjoyed your video of such an iconic place. 👍
Thanks for joining us, you dont have to be a biker to join us on the road and travel with us 👍
a bit of research into the cafe and its role and history that old lady is held in highest regard by former and serving british forces as a small girl she and her family welcomed the men into their home and still do to you its a cafe to her its her home and a shrine to the sacrifice of both french and allied personel have fun stay safe
Much respect to her, we knew about the cafe and the lady but like others here did not expect the reception!
Just started following your journey, you were lucky with that tree.A couple of years ago we went to the Peloponnese in Greece via ferry from Ancona to Patras.Great for motorcycle tenting.Bit older than you guys 76 and 65 riding Triumph Tiger.
Thanks for joining us! Yes the tree was a close one, hope you enjoy our current tour series
Once more you did it with justice and honour. Interesting the prices you give on things. With conversions considered, those prices are pretty much what we pay in aus, any day. The cost of living hey. Anyway, I'm really enjoying your experiences and how you go about it. I really like how the camera changes pending who is talking. Great feature. Cheers.
Thanks so much, we really enjoy the process of filming but the work is in the editing, we each love the creative process of making these videos and it’s amazing people seem to like them 👍
Awww ya missed the small little concrete ‘bollards’ on the other bank of the river which shows how close the gliders landed next to Pegasus bridge… I went there in 2006 and met the old lady who was running the cafe, she was 4 years old when the allies liberated, sadly passed away a good few years back, I need go back to the Normandy landings myself…..it’s been a while, great video again guys👍👍👍👍
There’s so much in Normandy we are learning more and more about it in the comments and want to return already to see what we missed!
Have you looked at getting an ACSI Camping Card for Europe? We saved a fortune at campsites on a recent trip. Great to see the respect you are giving for those who served in the past. In 2019, I stood on Omaha beach at the waters edge and turned around to face inland and tried to imagine the scene there just 75 years before as the troops landed and made their way ashore. Impossible of course to bring to life the horrors of that time.
Where do we get the card please?
@@ontheroadadventure Just Google "CampingCard ACSI". That should get you there. If not, let me know and I'll PM you the website address.
Thanks we will do that now
Cheeky burgers nickin the bench hahaha love it!
lol Too good an opportunity to miss!
Nice video. Having done a trip to Normandy on the bikes from the Isle of Man 30 years back for the 50th Anniversary, i can recommend cooking some nice steak for your tea. Amazing what you can knock up with a little gas stove while camping. We stayed at one campsite for the week and traveled out each day, as it is a right pain taking the tent up and down. Enjoy the rest of your trip.
We would like to stay places a couple days at a time for this reason but this time we are going to be covering some real distance so need to keep moving on
All the static munitions and tanks on display look like they were freshly painted, everywhere is kept immaculate! You cook better food on that camping stove than I do in my kitchen!! 🤣
We feel like the standard of camp cooking has gone down hill on this trip but it is just so time consuming… we are being somewhat more inventive this time with not always great results 😂
We find most places in France are kept up to a pretty good standard, some of the smaller towns and villages are amazing with just really good 'public realm' works. I think they tend to bond more and use open spaces more than we do here in the UK. We've been going for years and stumbled into many a village fete, car show, farmers harvest festival etc. And all those car boots!
We love to be outside more, any excuse to gather and socialise outside should be encouraged, i guess the rain is the problem in the uk
@@ontheroadadventure It certainly has been this year!!! 🌧️☔
Just dropping a note to say i apricate all the videos and say that i haven't watched any of the French ones yet as i am downloading them to binge watch on the ferry back to the UK
My father was a Normandy veteran going ashore on Gold beach on D+4, we were there for the commemoration for somewhen around the 70th anniversary.
My how thinks have changed since then, it is so much more developed, with railings and visitor centres, I truly appreciate that I got to see so much of it in its raw state before the development.
I appreciated your comment on the Germans being involved, we went to Pont du Hoc for dawn on one of our outings, I was looking out from one of the bunkers and a little fishing boat appeared out of the twilight mist, I can’t imagine what a German soldier would have felt seeing 1 then 3, 5, 10, 20… boats coming out of the mist. It must have been truly terrifying.
For those that may feel the need to vilify the Germans, a good many of them were ordinary soldiers following orders believing that they were fighting for the right side, I have met several German veterans through my dad and one was even joking about about how, as he and my dad were in the same area at the same time it could have been my dad that shot his arm off, saying it was the best thing that happened to him as it got him out of that bloody war!
Yes it’s so important to think about the humans on all sides, and of course the civilians who suffered too
Arodur sur glane. You need to visit that village!!
It’s on our locations map but the wrong way for us on this trip sadly
It's Oradour sur Glane, just a few clicks west of Limoges.
@@richardnunn3205 we will get there one day
Another real raker of a video as we say here in Northern Ireland Alan. 👍
We not sure what that means but we take it you liked it! cheers Alan
@@ontheroadadventure raker means better than brilliant.
i feel like ewa does when i keep saying new words or cockney slang she doesnt know!
That's 'Gold Beach' showing the remnants of the Mulberry Harbour. My Dad landed on that beach on the Tuesday morning of the 6th. June 1944
We will remember them
Great video , Ioved it, a great insight into the area, Mid August my mate and I are off to do the same Normandy trip for two weeks, camping at a lovely looking camp site at the top of Omaha Beach...this trip has been on my bucket list for maybe 30 years...:)
You are going to love it! You’ll have enough time to visit all the museums etc too.
@@ontheroadadventure So sorry for the late reply...wow!! I need a holiday after that trip...what a place, with such lovely folks....we visited almost all the museums along the beaches, and it turned out the curator of the Pegasus Bridge ( Nicholas) is an old friend of my mates..they hadnt seen each other for 30 years....in Bolton !!! ..what a trip...:)
Best camping tent pegs I’ve had and still use are the ones from Aldi. Absolutely amazing quality and value for money too.
I will keep an eye out in there for some
The old lady in the cafe, her grandfather was the original owner of the house when the battle took place, she also told me off for ordering a Coke Zero, she said you shouldn’t drink that rubbish, it’s full of bad ingredients, let’s say her customer relation’s needs a bit of work…..again guys, nice video, it’s a shame you didn’t see the British memorial at sword beach, it was so close to where you were, and probably the best one by far along with the American one……perhaps next year you can do the First World War cemetery’s, museums etc and the Menin Gate in Ypres Belgium, every night they do the last post…….that’s really moving😢
Wow, we would love to go see that. There’s so much history here, I’d love to do a tour with an expert to show us all the best locations and be full of knowledge. We will be back for sure
Ahhhh. Old folk. They say what needs to be said and they just don't give a F!!
Ahh to be like that!!
@@s.crambling3795 you'll get there
She's absolutely right about Coca Cola. It's poisonous toxic sludge. I did drink it, a bit, when younger, but wouldn't touch it now.
Georges the original owner, was Madame Arlette's father. She was hiding in the cafe basement with her elder sister Georgette, when the British arrived on D-Day.
That’s gratitude for you lol. It’s really sobering the relative peace we enjoy. You were think we would have learnt our lessons and never allow it again 😢
Why is it the common man can see this but those in charge seem to go at it time and time again
Exactly! One would think lessons have been learned, but I look and see the direction the world is potentially going in and I come to the conclusion that we've learned nothing in 80 odd years!!
Instead of getting better, we're getting worse!😟
Sad but true
It is such a shame you seemed to miss Ver sur Mer where the new British memorial is, the town is beautiful and the people incredibly friendly. We went back with my dad and after a few false starts managed to locate the exact exit he took from the beach on D+4, he walked down it to the beach and described every detail about the road leading away including the locations of bunkers which were still there amongst the houses up the hill.
We attended the ceremony just across the road from the Sexton self propelled gun on many occasions with my dad and the other attending veterans receiving their medals from the mayor.
Sadly we missed this but we will be back again for sure to see the things we missed
Top.
Even though been many times, enjoyed your view of it.
Would recommend a lightweight cover gor your bike when parking up. Always carry one and leave the bike iut of sight - out of mind. Think it cost me an Ayrton from Lidl. Admittedly some years ago.
Good watch, team.
Ride safe 👍
Good idea to help hide the stuff when we have to leave the bags 👍
The most efficient tent pegs I have ever used are those you can buy for Carp Fishing Bivvys. Solid, well made and will last an age...Hope this helps.
Thanks allot have suggested these, we will try and find some
@@ontheroadadventure Make sure you get them from people who make the Bivvys,,,"Trakker" is one suggestion. Journey on,,and Stay Safe.
Great to see you guys back on the road, enjoy
Thanks for joining us
@@ontheroadadventure Wouldn't miss your adventures. While I'm going through a rough patch (mental health from the cancer) you guys give me a little escape. Bloody UK weather driving me crazy as much as anything and need to get my head sorted and have an overseas trip
The Bike is the best healer my friend, the old advise of being outside is as correct as it is right. We wish you all the best bud and glad we can help you in a little way
@@ontheroadadventure Thanks guys, safe travels and enjoy
Wow, powerful episode today guys!
That cinema experience is something else... If you get chance to go, Do it!
The Mulberry Harbours you saw at Arromanches were built and tested near Wigan-on the Solway Firth and Loch Ryan in Scotland then towed down the West coast in time for D - Day.
Another great video guys.
Ewa there is a large Polish War Cemetery near Monte Casino in Italy which unfortunately on my visit to Monte Casino was closed again a massive loss of life by both the Allied Forces and German soldiers.
Sounds like an excuse to ride back to Italy!
i know wigans got a pier but dont think its on the solway firth
great drone footage
Thanks, Glad you enjoyed it
the things in the water are the remains of the mulberry harbour my father was at D-Day he was in the Royal Navy thank you for a great Video
We could have spent weeks here learning and seeing all the locations. Very interesting place
Normandy is very beautiful further inland too. The roads around Suisse Normandy, as it is known, are nearly empty and perfect for cycling and motorbiking.
I was in southern Spain a couple years ago trying to hammer pegs into that hard ground we all know of, An old Spanish chap strolled up and gave me half a dozen 6" nails, they worked a treat.
Will Defo work... need to find a tin or something sensible to put them in to tour with though
Delta Ground pegs are the best, the windier it gets the deeper they anchor. They are quite big but you can probably get away with only 4-6. They use them on temporary helipads so brilliant pegs
That sounds great, we will look them up online
The “Old lady” is a lovely friendly person so long as you follow the rules. She was a very young child on the day the bridge was taken and hid in the now Cafe’s basement. Her parents helping the Airbourne troops who landed there. I would strongly advise reading more about D Day, watch some documentaries to get a better idea of what went on. There is so much more to see in Normandy. The museums have so many stories of individual heroics and tragedy.
We can’t wait to return and see all the things we have been told about in the comments that we missed this time.
met the lady in question ourselves back in April this year. She also told me off for taking a photo of my wife sitting at inside table, nevertheless we had a great conversation with her and she wrapped up our souvenirs elegantly and with lovely bow. We will be going back for more coffee and that delicious cake thats for sure.
A very interesting place with a characterful owner, impossible not to return!
Czesc...
Lovely Jaguar at 9:50
Was that an old H-D Sturgis at 11:00?
Another superb video, and once again very thought provoking.
I've never been abroad on a bike but this certainly looks like a good smaller tour to start on....
Meanwhile, typical Polish woman...totally disobeys the rules...🤣
Ride safe...looking forward to the next episode.
Haha Ewa does not take any crap from anyone lol. We are in the Black forest Germany right now and there must be some sort of rally on, the place is full of immaculate vintage high end cars, youll see some amazing ones go by in coming episodes. Normandy is the perfect tour to do from the uk, and one i promise youll never forget
@@ontheroadadventure Ooh!!! Please feel free to get some footage of the cars, I do like a nice car (should I admit they are a bigger attraction than motorcycles!)?
Meanwhile you sure don't hang about. Have you managed to get any nice gateaux?
We try to record cars that really stand out to us but im not a fan of when people pretend to be enthusiastic on things they know nothing about, we dont do fake... Yes we are moving along on this tour, we are going to show you all many things and places on this tour....
We did all that a few weeks ago, very informative! If you you've not been head for orodor sur glane, which was destroyed by the SS just after D day. The town has been preserved as a memorial, sad but true! 😢
We have that one on our to visit map, but sadly not on this tour
Went over on a visit with my old Comrades of the Devonshire and Dorsets, We had about 13 old standards Madame Gondre saw an old Devonshire standard and recognised the Embroidered Badge almost at once . We had a photo taken with her and had a good yap . The Devonshires 12th Battalion were airborne troops, gliders . Marvelous lady .❤❤
Awesome the history there is amazing
Thanks for posting this exellent video amazing content
Our pleasure thanks for being with us on the channel. See you in the next one
Another great episode, many thanks and keep em coming.
Thanks, will do!
Hiya myself and a friend visited pegasus bridge ,the old lady you referred to is the daughter of the original owners, who I believe was there when they got liberated ,she was four at the time ….. keep up the good work,really appreciate your vlogging
Thanks Steve, yes you’re spot on… it seems she is known for her customer service skills 😂
@@ontheroadadventure 😂 also speaks English, we bought a Pegasus cafe T shirt 😊
Nice one
Peggy Bridge is the spiritual home of the UK Airborne Forces in Normandy. The old woman you referred to is Madame Gondree, and as you say, there are notices!
We live and learn!
Fantastic video chaps 👍
Thanks Eddie! Love you bye!
Love your vids guys. It’s made me want to go back now and see the area in more detail. Did you know that a fuel line to supply the troops ran up the river by Pegasus bridge all the way from the Isle of Wight?
How on earth is that possible?! How is enough pressure created to push it the whole way?! Amazing
Have no idea how either! We only found out when we visited Shanklin Chine in the Isle of Wight as they had a some of the fuel line there.
I’m sure someone here will know and tell us..
Loved your video by the way 😂
Thanks ☺️
Loving the new adventure you are both on great footage
Hi Karen, hope you guys are good, We are in for a very varied trip this time! Hope you enjoy it
@@ontheroadadventure finally got home last night with the yellow Vespa 🛵 this time so the adventure is finally over until the next time
@@karenwiltshire4311 time to plan your next adventure! Maybe we can inspire your next trip
Lmao I'm that old man...one key at a time. You have know idea how long it takes me to send you a comment on your videos. So appreciate you sharing a very important part of our history.
😂 This made us laugh!!! We thank you for every Letter 🤣🫡🫡
@@ontheroadadventure y o u r w e l c o m e
😆 🤣
Been there plenty of times, I moved to France and back again years ago. Used to chat to the vets at the 4th July, they all had stories to tell, watched their best mates get blown to pieces right next to them, but had to blank it and carry on. Harrowing but they took it on the chin. They never described themselves as brave heroes, they were young teenage boys and terrified, many drowned being pushed off the landing craft carrying back packs and weapons, they were too short in deep water. Many were shot while in the craft, and many more never made it up the beach. The guy manning the machine gun strafing the beach was himself a teenager, he said that troops kept coming and he just kept shooting. The barrels got hot and took 45 seconds to change, it was that gap that allowed some allied troops to get up the beach once they figured it out. I know the guy who makes the ghost soldiers, thousands of washers welded together, they are works of art. The lady at the Pegasus Bridge cafe is a legend, no one messes with her, she is a true lady. There is a huge amount to see, you need to spend a week there really. The WW1 stuff around Arras in the east is amazing as well. Interestingly, there is no footage from Omaha, the film was sent to the labs to be developed and they messed up, destroying it all.
Wow that’s interesting, we saw some of the ww1 stuff as we moved on down to Germany. So interesting and must never be forgotten
Nails work well but not ideal to carry with you. The 360’cinema looked cool, another great video, I have shared it, hope you get the numbers you need
Yeah we would be too worried about doing more damage than good with them nails. Thanks for your support
Visit the Merville Gun Battery nearby, well worth a visit, my late father was involved in the airborne D-Day assault
Thanks we will add it to our list of locations to see 👍
You guys are making a damn good fist of this D-Day history visit. Glad you are enjoying it as we are. Only downside are the French rip off food prices. 😊👍🏍
Thanks so much, yes seems Most of Europe is now a expensive place to be
Another great video. Are you following me? I stayed at camping cappuccine in 2013 with my old gpz600r lol
Yes right behind you bud
I’m gutted for you that you missed what I think is the number 1 place to visit , British Normandy Memorial and the standing with giants memorial.
The ladies of the Pegasus bridge are famous for there very unwelcoming approach 😂😂😂😂 and they are a bit pricey too.
The next village down from Pegasus is Cormelles Le royal is twinned with my village Combe Martin.
I wild camped in the woods near to where you camped and was visited by a wild bore in the night.
I always say to folk when they visit Normandy is do your research as it gives you a much better understanding of what your looking at.
Happy travels guys, looking forward to the next vlog.
You are so right, we wish we had done more research however how we already have many reasons to go back
I was there 20 years ago last been several times I’ve never had a problem had a good look around the cafe and the surrounding area
Not the end of the world, we all have bad days, we would still recommend people go their to appreciate the history
@@ontheroadadventure great place for anyone interested in history
We want to go back already to see things we have been told about here
My old RSM PETE KELLY was at the Bridge during the war. 🫡🙏🪂🫡
Much respect 🫡
Mme A. Gondree is a gem and deserves the utmost respect. There are signs all over not to take pictures. It's all personal stuff from various visitors through the years as valued memories which she shares with those who come to visit. Her house, her rules. She's famous in many places, just ask any old Brummie who she is 😉
The stuff inside has all been donated?
@ontheroadadventure Mostly, yes. Memorabilia thru the years. She can be a bit blunt at times (I've been on the end of it!) but it's her stuff and her home.
Amazing history there we love that stuff
Nice one guys
Cheers bud
Best pegs I've used came with my Oztent gear, not bent one yet !! Might have a few spares if you want !!
Not heard of that brand before
@@ontheroadadventure Australian adventure tents, great equipment
We bought some in decathlon the other day they seem to be much stronger than the ones we have
Before you go out and buy "better tent pegs" try double pegging. Use two pegs in each loop at slightly different angles. It work for myself in really windy conditions, but my tent is much lower to the ground.
Oh good tip, we can try that right away, thanks bud
The 'tight squeeze' at 14:37 is a German emplacement for a single machine gun, it is a classic part of German defenses all over Normandy and is called a 'Tobruk'.. Yes, you did miss out on going to 'Memorial Pegasus' there's loads of original items from the time of the Airborne Landings at Pegasus Bridge.. Madame Arlette Gondree is a very stern and formidable lady, I think she was three years old at the time of the landings.. The Airborne soldier you mentioned who was killed on Pegasus Bridge (Lieutenant Dennis Brotheridge, the first allied soldier to be killed by enemy action on D-Day) is buried in the Churchyard at Ranville, which I think is the small town where you went to the supermarket to get your Dauphinois potatoes and Kebab sausages !..
Luckily I went to the Pegasus museum a couple years ago so have seen the bridge etc, shame we didn’t know where to find the churchyard though
The Rude old Lady was Madame Gondree, who, as a child was liberated. It’s her Cafe.
Very interesting lady
A tear running down my face. To all who gave so much. Thank you, May you rest in peace, we will remember you.
Always 🫡
another great show 👍 fair play Eva for going off on your own for shopping, cant believe you let a woman go shopping on her own rich, hope she never had your card 😂
lol she can take what she likes from me I just worry because Ewa has a habit of getting lost!!
@@ontheroadadventure i have noticed that 🤣
Gotta keep an eye on this one 🤣
Did you buy a guide book for the Area Codes for all these destinations ???
No that sounds very organised?!