American Battle Monuments Commission completes relocation of Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument elements and cannon

On June 17, the American Battle Monuments Commission successfully completed the first step in the relocation of the Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument elements, including the dagger and associated components, from their current location, as well as the relocation of a cannon at Pointe du Hoc.

The work, carried out as part of ongoing efforts to preserve the historic site, required the closure of Pointe du Hoc to the public for the day and the coordinated involvement of specialized contractors and ABMC personnel.

A carefully planned and executed operation

The operation to move the monument followed a detailed technical sequence beginning in the early morning, with site preparation, safety briefings, and the controlled arrival of heavy equipment. A crane was guided across the historic terrain from the site entrance to the very end of Pointe du Hoc early in the morning to support the lifting operations.

Prior to any lifting, stabilization systems were installed to secure the monument and ensure safe handling of its components. This preparation phase was essential to prevent movement or structural instability during the removal process.

Workers in front of Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument before its relocation. Credit: American Battle Monuments Commission.

Movement of the monument

Later in the morning, crews moved the two lateral elements commonly referred to as the "books." These elements were carefully detached, lifted by crane, placed on pallets, and transported to a designated staging area.

The two lateral elements or "books" of the Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument being removed from the dagger. Credit: American Battle Monuments Commission.

The main movement of the Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument dagger took place later in the day. Following controlled detachment from its base, the monument was lifted and secured on a pallet before being transported.

The dagger of the Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument being moved by a crane. Credit: American Battle Monuments Commission. Securization of the monument on a pallet before moving it to its storage location during the work at Pointe du Hoc.

The monument will be stored until it can be placed in its new location at the Memorial Plaza. Here, the monument will be accessible to visitors and can serve as a backdrop for future ceremonies. The dagger in its current location is no longer safe for visitor engagement or ceremonial access.

Parallel relocation of the cannon

Along with moving the monument, a separate operation was conducted that morning to relocate a cannon within the site. This sequence began with the arrival of lifting equipment, followed by rigging and lifting operations. The sequence was completed before midday.

Securization of the cannon before being relocated. Credit: American Battle Monuments Commission.

Once lifted, the cannon was placed on a transport vehicle. It was then repositioned and installed, with final orientation validated on site to ensure proper placement.

Supporting long-term preservation of Pointe du Hoc

The relocation of the Pointe du Ranger Monument and the cannon are part of broader efforts by ABMC to preserve Pointe du Hoc, a site of exceptional historical significance commemorating the actions of U.S. Army Rangers on D-Day June 6, 1944.

These interventions are intended to support long-term site preservation while ensuring that future generations can continue to experience and understand the history of Pointe du Hoc.

The American Battle Monuments Commission sites are a constant reminder of Gen. John J. Pershing's promise that, "time will not dim the glory of their deeds."