Operation Dragoon: A Private Journey Through the "Forgotten D-Day" in Provence

The liberation of Western Europe did not only happen on the beaches of Normandy. It was also won under the summer sun of Provence.

On August 15, 1944, a massive Allied force—orchestrated under the codename Operation Dragoon—launched a decisive assault on the Mediterranean coast. This was the "Southern Punch" that accelerated the collapse of the Third Reich in France. For the families of the 3rd, 36th, and 45th US Infantry Divisions, as well as the 1st Airborne Task Force, this coastline is more than a holiday destination; it is a landscape of sacrifice and strategic genius.

French Limousine offers a specialized private tour designed for history enthusiasts and descendants of the liberators who demand a profound, rigorous, and comfortable exploration of these historic grounds.

I. The Invasion Beaches: Alpha, Delta, and Camel

We navigate the 45-mile stretch of coastline where the fate of Southern France was decided. Our tour avoids the generic tourist stops to focus on the technical and human reality of the landings:

• Alpha Beach (Cavalaire & St-Tropez): We explore the sectors where the 3rd Infantry Division made its initial push. We discuss the logistical challenge of moving thousands of men and vehicles onto these narrow strips of sand.

• Delta Beach (Sainte-Maxime): Where the 45th "Thunderbird" Division landed. We analyze the geography of the bay and how the Allied forces managed to secure the heights overlooking the town.

• Camel Beach (Le Dramont/Saint-Raphaël): Perhaps the most dramatic sector, where the red volcanic rocks of the Estérel witnessed the fierce resistance of German coastal batteries. Here, we honor the courage of the 36th "Texas" Division.

II. The Airborne Epic: Le Muy & The "Rugby" Objective

A true understanding of Operation Dragoon requires moving inland. During the night of August 15, over 9,000 paratroopers were dropped into the fog-shrouded valley of the Argens River.

• The Drop Zones of Le Muy: We visit the strategic locks where paratroopers from the British 2nd Independent Parachute Brigade and the US 509th, 517th, and 551st Parachute Infantry Battalions fought to prevent German reinforcements from reaching the coast.

• Task Force Butler: We trace the lightning-fast inland progression that bypassed German strongpoints to link up with the French Resistance and race toward the Rhône Valley.

III. The Rhone American Cemetery: A Sanctuary of Memory

Located in Draguignan, this is the emotional heart of our journey. Covering 12 acres, it is the final resting place for 860 of our military dead, most of whom gave their lives during Operation Dragoon.

• Reflection & Honor: We provide a pace that allows for a private, solemn visit. Whether you are searching for a specific name on the "Tablets of the Missing" or simply paying respects at the bronze relief map of the operations, your chauffeur ensures your time here is undisturbed and respectful.

IV. The French Limousine Expertise: Logistics of History

Why choose a private executive chauffeur for a WWII pilgrimage?

1. Geographical Precision: Many memorial sites and bunkers are hidden or difficult to access. We know the exact coordinates of the less-visited monuments and strategic viewpoints that overlook the landing sectors.

2. A Private Sanctuary: Between the emotional intensity of the cemetery and the physical exploration of the bunkers, our Mercedes Classe S or V-Class serves as a silent, climate-controlled sanctuary. Chilled water, high-speed Wi-Fi (to research family records on the go), and absolute comfort allow you to process the day’s discoveries in peace.

3. Tailored Narratives: We don't follow a pre-recorded script. We adapt the itinerary to your specific interests—whether you are focusing on the 1st Special Service Force (The Devil's Brigade) or the French 1st Armored Division’s role in the liberation of Marseille and Toulon.

Check availability and request your bespoke quote by contacting us through the contact form.