the Normandy experience
Arrival
The party gathers at a comfortable hotel and meets the hindsight team. Over dinner we will provide a brief introduction to the hindsight experience, the programme and the likely outcomes. Our military historian will give an overview of the Normandy campaign, set in the wider context of the Second World War.
Day 1
After breakfast we drive to the Pointe du Hoc, a German gun emplacement destroyed by US special forces early on D-Day. This sets the scene and highlights the hindsight methodology. We then move to 3 further viewpoints including Omaha Beach, the US Normandy Cemetery and the Mulberry Harbour at Arromanches. Discussions include planning challenges both on the shop floor and in the boardroom. After returning to the hotel we gather before dinner for a discussion of the main conclusions of the day, and in particular those points that have direct relevance to the Corporate world. At dinner a senior military officer with contemporary operational experience provides a perspective of military leadership that is designed to stimulate discussion.
Day 2
The first rendezvous is at the British military cemetery at Bayeux. This is followed by discussions at a German strongpoint that the British attacked on D-Day, at the start line for the breakout battle around Caen and the bridge over the Orne Canal which was captured by a desant operation early on D- Day. At these stands we discuss leadership, training, command and control, learning lessons and the benefits of delegation.
Reflection
Two weeks later we gather for dinner in a small military Mess in London to discuss the outcomes of the experience. It will be an opportunity to reflect on some of the major themes and draw enduring conclusions. We will produce a short pamphlet and CD that summarises the discussions and includes highlights of the event.
