The Final Salute: National D-Day Memorial June 4-9, 2019 - 4

BRIGITTE LUCKETT

rom its wealth of shops, art galler-

NICOLE JOHNSON

Top of page: The town of
Bedford is just east of
the famed Peaks of
Otter along the 469-mile
Blue Ridge Parkway.
Immediately above:
Beale's, Bedford's first
brewery, takes its name
from the famous
treasure alleged to be
buried somewhere in
Bedford County.

THE FINAL SALUTE

ies, entertainment and authentic
eateries, to its endless outdoor
adventures, the Bedford region offers a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or your
next vacation.
Most notably, Bedford is the site of the
National D-Day Memorial, a deeply moving
tribute to the American and Allied forces that
fought in the largest amphibious invasion of all
time. The Memorial overlooks the community
that suffered the greatest loss per capita of any
in the United States during the invasion of
Normandy on June 6, 1944. The Memorial creates a solemn atmosphere for veterans and visitors alike to gain insight and learn more about
the events that shaped history.
In addition, the Memorial hosts numerous
events throughout the year, including veteran
recognition ceremonies on Memorial Day and
Veterans Day, the Armed Forces Day 5K in May,
outdoor concerts and family events such as the
1940s-style Homefront Festival each July.
Just below the 88-acre memorial hill site, in
Historic Downtown Bedford, one will find a
vibrant arts community and multiple Artisan
Trail sites, beautiful 19th-century architecture,
antique shopping, eclectic dining , a community
orchestra, theater company and live music performances. In 2017, the town celebrated the opening of its first brewery, Beale's. The brewery
features a full-service restaurant, live entertainment and special beer releases throughout the
year.
The Bedford Museum and Genealogical
Library, located at 201 E. Main Street, showcases collections that tell Bedford's story from
its earliest Native Americans through the 20th
century. Popular exhibits include Company A
of the 116th Infantry of D-Day fame, and Native
American, Civil War and African American

exhibits. Genealogical records and other materials for research about Bedford and Virginia
are here. There is no admission charge, but
donations are accepted.
Built in 1930, the Bedford County
Courthouse classical revival building features
an Ionic order porch, Corinthian columns and
Flemish bond brickwork. The massive triangular pediment has a unique design incorporating symbols of local crops of corn and tobacco,
and the official crest of John Russell, the fourth
Duke of Bedford (England). Encircling the
grounds stand monuments to veterans of the
American Revolution, Civil War and World
War II. Noteworthy is the 1954 memorial to the
local men who died liberating Europe in WWII.
The Bower Center for the Arts, a showcase
for the visual and performing arts, is a must-see
in Bedford. The center has been operating as
an arts venue since 2006. It provides programs,
studio space for artists, presents music performances and sponsors numerous art exhibits
and other cultural events.
In September, the town hosts Centerfest,
one of Central Virginia's largest annual street
festivals.

Out and About: Enjoy the Outdoors
in One of Virginia's Most Beautiful
and Scenic Destinations!
The Blue Ridge Parkway, "America's Favorite
Drive," has more miles in Bedford County than
any other Virginia locality, and winds 469 miles
through mountain meadows and past countless
scenic vistas, with the legendary Peaks of Otter
as one of the most spectacular stops, hosting the
Peaks of Otter Lodge and Restaurant. There
are walking and hiking trails and many picnic
areas available.
Wine aficionadoes will enjoy the Bedford
Wine Trail, including Hickory Hill Vineyard,

The Final Salute: National D-Day Memorial June 4-9, 2019

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