Here are Eric Labourdette’s own words about his jump into La Friere Bridge zone in June 2017. https://talesalongtheway.com/2017/08/11/eric-labourette-guide-extraordinaire/
” I wanted to jump to honor and remember the sacrifice of all those paratroopers who gave their lives for our freedom. I am an old paratrooper and a Navy Commando. In May, I was at the jump school of round Canopy Parachute Team in le Havre in Normandy to jump.
After five jumps, I was a paratrooper of the RCPT and it was possible for me to jump during the first week of June. I was in ninth position in the stick in the plane.
And my landing was at the end of the drop zone not far from Cauquigny. I noticed the noise and vibration of the engine. But no one was firing ! The jump master ordered, “Stand and hook up.” My heart accelerated. The American jump master jumped first. I remember to see the ground when I crossed the door. Checked the canopy. It was fantastic to see the drop zone, La Fiere Bridge and the large visiting crowd I landed at the end of the DZ.
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A grandfather was very close with his grandchildren. They ran over asking to take pictures with me. I was proud and honored. We took pictures with my M42 jacket of the 82nd Airborne. I hope that those who died here can see that they are not forgotten. This was a beautiful day in the life of an old paratrooper.
Live your dreams Honor and remember
Eric ended, “This part of Normandy is a new star in your flag, God bless all those young soldiers who died in June of 1944. ( Amen! My affirmation with Eric’s prayer.)
TalesAlongTheWay 
how amazing. thank you for your service, eric –
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Thank you 🙂
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Thank you Anne
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You are welcome. Thank you for the two perfect days you gave my family and me. Those memories will live in our hearts forever!
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This day means a lot to both of us, Anne. I’m glad you met Eric!
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He was such a blessing to my family and me. I had the picture of the plan and wanted to get his permission He sent the other epicures and poured out his heart. Amazing!
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Good job my friend 😉 Thanks for sharing your expérience with us .
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Thank you for the comment. Eric is indeed a special person !
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From one old paratrooper to another, I salute you, Eric. And I thank you for being such a help to Anne and her family. They do so much to keep the memory of the sacrifices of paratroopers, before and on D Day, and the fighting afterwards, via Anne’s blog, her brother’s web site, and her mother’s wonderful little book, A PARATROOPER’S FAITH.
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Best experience ever! A great honor jumping in memory of all those who did it on D-day, a dream fulfilled together. Preparing the 74th anniversary my fríend!!😉
Wishing to climb back to the C-47 together!
AIRBORNE!!
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Bravo!
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We are proud of individuals like Eric. They make America great.
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