“REMEMBER”: Together, let’s keep their memory alive
D Day Documentaries: The events of the 20th century remind us of the dangers of forgetting history’s lessons. As the memory of the Second World War fades with time, it becomes ever more vital to preserve and share it. That is the mission that REMEMBER, a non-profit association based in Normandy, has set for itself.
Through its educational programs, guided tours, and documentary productions, REMEMBER works to keep history alive — especially for younger generations — fostering understanding and dialogue among people of all nationalities.
Documentary Productions
To complement its educational mission, REMEMBER produces original documentary films that explore key moments and human stories from World War II and beyond. These films are used within our educational programs and shared with the wider public, offering powerful, immersive storytelling that connects the past with the present.
Rodolphe Rutman
Author, Director & Artistic Producer
Rodolphe Rutman writes and directs creative documentaries that bring history to life through authentic testimonies and deeply human perspectives. His work focuses on memory, reconciliation, and the enduring impact of the Second World War on individual destinies.
Big Red Omaha
Written by Jacques & Rodolphe Rutman – Directed by Rodolphe Rutman, Co-directed by Jacques Rutman
Broadcast on France 2, France 5, and ZDF (Germany), June 2004
This film retraces, through the voices of 13 veterans from the “Big Red One” — the U.S. 1st Infantry Division — the harrowing day they lived through on Omaha Beach at dawn on June 6, 1944. Their testimonies evoke the fear, courage, and brotherhood of those who faced one of the most decisive moments of the D-Day landings.
Destins Croisés (Crossed Destinies)
Written and Directed by Rodolphe Rutman
Broadcast on Odyssée and Cityzen Television, June 2004
This documentary tells the story of two teenagers — one American, one German — who meet on opposite sides of the dunes of Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944. Their first confrontation becomes a moment where war shatters youth, yet reveals a shared humanity that transcends the front lines.
Notre Père, Ce Héros (Our Father, This Hero)
Notre Père, Ce Héros (Our Father, This Hero)
Written and Directed by Rodolphe Rutman
Co-produced by five German-speaking television networks – Broadcast in Germany in summer 2014 on Phoenix, ARD, NDR, BR, SDR, and WDR
This documentary tells the remarkable story of an American soldier of German descent who took part in the Battle of Normandy, landing on Omaha Beach in June 1944. Through family memories and historical archives, Our Father, This Hero explores questions of identity, heritage, and reconciliation. The film bridges two worlds — Germany and America — and reminds us that the legacy of D-Day extends far beyond national boundaries, connecting generations through shared memory and humanity.
Watch Our Father, This Hero in German here:
Looking Ahead
Several new D Day documentaries are currently in development. Like all of REMEMBER’s initiatives, they are designed to engage viewers emotionally and intellectually, ensuring that the memory of those who lived through history continues to inspire reflection, empathy, and peace.
To find out more about Rodolphe Rutman, click HERE.