2014 marked the 70th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy during the Second World War. In June of 2014, students from Nantyr Shores Secondary School had the opportunity to travel to Normandy, France to take part in the very special D-Day ceremonies. For many, this trip was both eye-opening and life-altering. From making memories and a life-long bond with their fellow travellers to reflections on what life would have been like for soldiers not much older than themselves, these students demonstrate the importance and a true understanding of the meaning of "Lest We Forget". The journey was heavily supported by many organizations within the Innisfil community. The students that participated on the trip were able to share some of their memories and experiences with Our Stories Innisfil. The first voice you hear on the video is teacher and trip organizer Karen McLeod asking the students to share their memories about visiting the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp. Mason begins by sharing his impressions of the living quarters of the prisoners. He describes narrow, over-crowded rooms, without sheets or pillows. He describes the washrooms as very public and open bowls in the wall. Cassidy goes on to describe her experience of exploring the medical unit and the startling realization that the room she had just photographed had been once filled with the bodies of those who had passed away. Rachel describes the feeling of unreality she experienced while walking through the camp, and how difficult it was to imagine being forced to live in the conditions.
