Today, we’re telling the story of Major Thomas Dry Howie – the Major of Saint-Lô. This native South Carolinian stormed the beaches of Normandy, and continued to inspire his men, and the world, after his death.

Thomas Howie was born in Abbeville, SC in 1908, descended from the French Huguenot community who established themselves in South Carolina before the Revolution. They named the town Abbeville, in honor of their French town they left behind.

Over 150 years later, one of their descendants would return to Normandy to liberate France in World War II, and is buried on French soil in the Normandy American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. Thomas Howie is one of South Carolina’s heroes – and today, we wanted to share his story. We’ll also show you the moving memorial in his honor that is located in Abbeville.

Click below to join Khal, and let’s explore . . .