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National D-Day Memorial

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During WWII, 30 Bedford National Guard soldiers joined the invasion of Normandy. Nineteen were killed in action on D-Day, the highest per capita loss of any community in the country. Today, Bedford and the US honor the sacrifice of these Bedford Boys at this memorial. Among its exhibits, a cast of bronze figures re-enacts the storming of the beach, complete with bursts of water symbolizing the hail of bullets the soldiers faced. Take the one-hour guided tour for more background.

Note that the water features are turned off December to mid-March. Purchase tickets at the Bedford Area Welcome Center on Burks Hill Rd.

The town of Bedford sits at the foot of the Peaks of Otter, a popular hiking and camping destination on the Blue Ridge Pkwy.

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Nearby attractions

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The countryside around Bedford is speckled with vineyards, including this winery with attached orchard (pick your own fruit August through October). It…

2. White Rock

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3. Hickory Hill Winery

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This winery, anchored by a charming 1923 farmhouse, welcomes picnickers including family groups. Try its Mist, a blend of chardonnay and Vidal Blanc.

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