My grandfather fought in WWII, and spent time in France. When I was younger, he said to me "grandson, I fought so that people who take their good fortune for granted could express hatred towards other nations on the Internet".

Hoover, London,

Ron in Canada - FYI - 'Europe' doesn't have an army - we are made up of multiple countries, nationalities, races etc, each with their own cultures, traditions and armies. Not sure that America funds our army here in the UK, or is in charge of our protection for that matter - who's army do they fund?

Gemma, Notts, England

Another debate, another opportunity a section of American society to vent their hatred for things they don't know about or understand. You guys need to do your research & stop putting forward such dramatic, bigoted, stereotyped and generalised comments - how many of you have actually been to France?

Gemma, Notts, England

Spence - 'Many French people are great while others are really hostile, arrogant and obnoxious.' Now apply that to every nation because that's human nature - the comments by you & others have proven that it certainly describes Americans. It's disappointing to see this unjustified hatred from so many

Gemma, Notts, England

Its a sad story, but just because they're gone doesn't mean they weren't ever there... France helped the US win independence, and the US helped liberate France. We are linked by these great deeds and nothing will ever change that.

Brian, Potsdam, NY, United States of America

If someone where thinking they could have chopped those trees down in such a way to save the graffiti and sell it on Ebay or something. If my Dad had fought in WWII( he was only ten at the time) I would have loved to have some kind of tangible memento of American soldiers in Europe.

Susan, Bedford, USA

Do the mother's of Canada and Europe not read the "Little Red Hen" do their children? America is baking the bread for the world! In fact, the world turns to us for the latest technology, medical care, money in times of crisis, and of course military, (Canada sleeps well knowing we are strong).
Pam

Pamela Stallard, RN, LNC, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA

Dear Europe,
It seems very fashionable to bash my American brothers for being "war mongers" and "arrogant". Please take a step back and think what it would be like if America was not around to protect you. Imagine the cut backs on your benefits and welfare system if you had to fund your own army?

Ron, Vancouver, Canada

I see nothing in this situation that is insulting to Americans, living or dead. Mr Robin should be thanked for maintaining them until now. The local government has a responsibility to keep traffic lanes safe. I am grateful to Mr' Robin and Mr Navarro for being as concerned as they are.

Dan , Carrollton, USA

Since when would anyone other than the French have the right to say anything about this? Thank you to the Americans who recognize this, shame on the rest of them who feel that they have a say in something like this in an other country. Where do you think anti US sentiment comes from?

Bobby, Pitt Meadows, Canada

I'm sure that if this was in the news PRIOR to the cutting down- many people would have offered to buy these trees and have them replanted or to have them pruned. Certainly they could've been moved to a museum's grounds etc. or even cut the trees in sections & sold it...instead of making paper!

Risa, Montgomery, USA

The French people are grateful to those who supported them in both WWI and WWII. I have been there. I have been hugged by a crying stranger who could not speak english but understood my telling her that my Grandfather had fought there, where we stood, in Chateau-Thierry.

HarryVT, Wilton, USA

To the "local officials", travel the road in safety now. and "please" remember those who made it possible to do so.

M. Soroka, Virginia,

To the great people of France, please excuse the ignorance of my fellow countrymen. Many of us know the honor and respect France displays for all nations and we thank you. To my fellow Americans, your anti-French comments are an embarrassment to the US. They're only trees!
James T- retired vet

James T, Tucson, US

I wish the plight of the trees was made known sooner. As someone who volunteers to help retired soldiers; I am a former Marine myself, I would have gladly paid the price to prune a tree, organized fundraisers. I am sure that some of our US arborists would have voluteered their time too.

Mick, Rahway, NJ, USA

More of the same from the French...
In 1964 Charles De Gaulle wanted President Johnson to remove U.S. troops from France. Secretary of State Dean Rusk flew to Paris to seek clarification. Seething, he asked DeGaulle, "Does your order include the bodies of American soldiers in France's cemeteries?"

Gary, Albany, NY, USA,

A great country is made up of great people. That's what makes a great country. The U.S.A. is a great country because the people are great. Simple logic. There are some who appreciate us for being great and some who are envious of us for being great. I thank the Lord I live in the US and not Europe.

James, California, USA

Having personally visited the beachs of Normandy I have great respect for the allies for their accomplishments and sacrifices. Remember the French Resistance assisted in much of the intel before the landings. I have visited the American Cemetary at Normandy. That is a better tribute then these trees

Marc, Annapolis, MD, USA

Brad from Washington, DC, the French revolution occurred AFTER the American revolution...

Steven Seagal, Hollywood, CA, USA

I had not heard about the trees until now and am saddened they had to be cut down, but have learned something new about WWII and those that fought there. The memories and the history is there and not all people have or will ever forget. God bless our service men and women from our past and present

Chana, Fort Hood, TX, USA

Beth, Allenstown,

Actually Britain declared war on Germany in support of Poland.
They didn't wait to be attacked.

John McD, San Francisco , ca, USA

Maybe in 65 years people will complain that cities painted over gang graffiti spray painted in public places. Get over it people! These carvings are nothing more than graffiti carved into someones private property! They are not religious icons, or sacred works of art.

Paul M. , charleston, west virginia , USA

In my humble perspective, what happens to trees bearing the marks of our fathers who bled and died on foreign soil for freedom from tyranny will not have as much an impact as my inability to appreciate their sacrifice and pass the flame along to others during my life.

Caine 'Doc Moses' Calhoun

Caine, Oklahoma City, United States

Who cares what's on the trees? They make the air clean and are beautiful. Why fell them?

Kim Righetti, Upland, Calif. USA

I think we can blame this outburst of righteous indignation from my fellow Americans on the media who try to blow up every little perceived insult. It is tragic but, I agree with Mike from Texas. Do we really want our D-Day soldiers to be remembered by the grafitti they left on trees? Relax people.

Ryan, Buffalo, NY, USA

WHy aren't we on here screaming about the price of GAS at the pump which is going to destroy our economy, instead of something happening in a country which we can do nothing about ..we need to march on DC about the ripping off we are getting at the pump..

Jackie, Aberdeen, USA

This happens all the time: fulfilling present needs at the expense of the past. My heart goes out to the local French citizens whom I believe are genuinely upset over this matter. History always has more meaning when it is a tangible legacy.

John, Aragon, USA

The German army swept through France stealing what they didn't destroy. The American army swept through France asking only for a little ground to bury their dead. I was recently in Chartres with an American group of pilgrims. I am happy to report that some French still clap when they see our flag.

ABellon, Haworth, USA

This is all so silly! My “genetic” background is French and Irish (Beaulieu/Day). One of my ancestors was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and another crossed the Delaware with George Washington.

This issue concerns a few trivial bureaucrats in France, and a landowner’s inability to effectively control the disposition of “his” property. This is a problem in almost every country. I would prefer the completion of The American Revolution, with an amendment to separate government from economy – the epistemological equivalent of the separation of government and religion, but in the physical, not spiritual realm.

Railing against the French people over this issue, is simply another form of collectivist bigotry!

Louis, Phoenix, AZ, USA

I am a proud American of our country and I can't help but think that they are just trees and it's a shame however it was an oversight and trees won't last forever anyway. And I really don't think the people that were alive in during WWII wishes we would have stayed out of the war.

John , Iowa, USA

This isn't about Iraq. This isn't about politics. This isn't Anti-American. If there was no story, no one would care. The memory is preserved in other ways. Thankfully, we have this story so the memory is now a narrative. This isn't personal folks. Quit the vitriole over some trees.

Brian, Jacksonville, USA

in the world did the owner not conatct the US embassy??? Surely they would have got in touch with someone that could have saved these trees?? i swear some people........grrrrrrrrrrrr

Maggie, Sapulpa, USA

My father in law came ashore at Normandy. He loved France and the time he spent there and the feelings were mutual. Anyone who has ever had the privilege to visit this sacred ground and the people who live there understands this bond can never be broken.

They're just trees, for gosh sakes!

Linda Hansen, Palm Coast, FL , USA

We shouldn't let a small, mostly private decision paint the entire picture of French appreciation. Anyone who has been to France knows there are dozens and dozens of monuments. Even small, no-name towns have put up monuments to our soldiers wherever they can with what little resources they have.

byron, las vegas, usa

My Dear French Friends:
I apologize for some of the comments made by the others. By now I'm sure you understand the importance we Americans place on monuments. We are, after all, the country that invaded Iraq, and turned it into a monument to our president's stupidity. Vive La France! - Tim B.

Tim B, Kansas City, U.S.

Are we so insecure about our enduring contribution to France's liberty and freedom that we worry about a few trees. In reality, time would taken those trees however, every child born from then on, free from Nazi terror, is the Allied Powers' greatest gift to France. Turn that into paper!

Andy, Yorktown, VA, USA

Many French people are great while others are really hostile, arrogant and obnoxious. It's OK if they want to destroy these remembrances. There are thousands of dead Americans under French soil! Next time the French get into trouble, let some other nation go in and save them!

Spence Downs, Evansville, USA

We gave the French their country back after two world wars and spent untold millions in aiding them to rebuild. This is typical of what I have seen of the French attitude over the past 60 years. Next time we should BYPASS them and free the rest of the world.

John Whitehouse, Greentown, PA, USA

Trees live and then they die; they must be removed now or else at some time in the future. The owner was exercising the private property rights and personal freedom that the soldiers (including two of my uncles) were willing to fight and die for. In that way the removal was itself a tribute.

Paul, Florida, USA

I'd just like to say that we do need to respect our history, but more importantly, we have to respect each other and the soil that we live on. Tearing down these trees isn't just historically offensive but it's slapping mother nature in the face because they're absolutely gorgeous trees!

brittany, virginia beac, USA

What's there to say?
So what if the French were to speak German today?
Not only that, who would their first lady be - certainly not the current one.
If only Mr. Robin had looked to the U.S. for money -- he would have made a profit.
Wonder why we don't want to drink French wine any more.

Jane, Manhattan, USA

whats all the fuss about? there's plenty more trees and plenty more wars.

phil mann, newcastle-upon-tyne, uk

Does anyone really think that any of the troops who carved these trees would be bothered that the trees were cut down over 60 years later?

We can't preserve everything. Lets honour their memory in significant ways, and not demean it by using this as an excuse to vent prejudices.

John, Edinburgh, UK

Like the Taliban blowing up great monuments to past ages,
this French "classless" act only shows mans lack of history
and those who came to save France from the grip of the
Nazis. One wonders how many of these markings were those
of men destined to be killed on French soil repaying France for
1776.

William Keller, Saint Louis, Missouri, U.S.A.

Put the Statue of Liberty on a boat and send it back to those French ingrates with a big note on it that says "Thanks, but no thanks."

Replace it with one that was made by American hands.

Matt, Honolulu, USA

I am French for Normandy. I am very sad to read your comments. I was educated int he respect of your sacrifice. With my parents we went and prayed for soldiers dead for France (british and canadians also). My town gave a piece a land to America Part one

marie, avranches, france

Easy folks, it seems, most of the people in the article thought it was ( the wrong thing to do) with the resolve to protect the remaining trees. I find that to be a good outcome for both countries going forward.

Charles Rink, LaGrange, Ohio, U.S.

http://fleursdelamemoire.free.fr

Hans, Binche, BE

I wonder how many people actually knew these trees were there. It is unfortunate this happened, given the temporary nature of trees, perhaps someone should have documented the inscriptions long ago. Much of our own Civil War landmarks are still being threatened. I still like Europe, even France!

kevin, Gaithersburg, MD

I wish I knew about these trees, I would have donated money to save them and I'm sure that many other Americans would have done the same.

Mike Dwyer, Staten Island, NY, USA

Yes, the story is sad but I think the truly upsetting thing here is the comments... The blind hatred towards an entire nation (or continent) is just awful! Some comments compare the French to bin Laden - just remember when you point a finger at someone, there are three pointing back at you.

Sara , Durham, UK

Heather, Winnipeg, Canada

I don`t think you`ll have any trouble keeping Americans from coming to Winnipeg.. Or Canadians.. Or the world.. Besides if Americans stop going to Canada we will lose their movie industry.

Michael, Montreal, Canada

I can't fault you americans for feeling annoyed.

It's no surprise though that the cheese eating surrender monkeys are at it though.

I can't wait to see what this EU army will look like, 1/2 the tanks will have 6 reverse gears and 1 forward. It'll also have to be totally manned by the british

maddog, bridgwater,

Leave it to France! Nothing they do or say surprises me anymore! As for me, Our soldiers will always be remembered here in the US, If France wants to sweep the past under the carpet, let them. I just hope they like praying to Allah!!

Jeffrey Ziemendorf, Milton, USA

I think the US has more than repaid the French for any assistance given during the Americian Revolution. I say the next time they come whining to us about needing to be saved we tell them to brush up on their German, or rather in this case, their Arabic....

M, Atlanta, USA

What a travesty! I can most certainly sympathize with Mr. Robin's frustration. It looks to me that perhaps we need to liberate France again - this time from the oppressive bureaucratic state that regulates the daily lives of the French people.

Emmett, Greenwich,

Imagine sending the Statue de la Liberté back to France!

Martin, Downingtown, USA

I agree with both Bill Rogers and Sandra. Many French are ingrates but a larger number respect and revere the sacrifices we made. Heck, there are even French reenactors who represent American Omaha Beach units. But life goes on and they will not be forgotten, least of all by the noble French.

John Lindsay, Chattanooga, USA

Similar to the French, elements of American history have been erased from school history books and class room discussion. We must not forget the censoring of children's books and their removal from libraries. Why? Those who erase history choose to forget the pains and successes experienced by many.

andrew bradford, Indiana, USA

I wonder if they paused to consider that the inscriptions were carved in English as opposed to German or Russian.

James, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

After having visited Normandy with my father and a reunion of his PIR, I can honestly tell you that the Normans have not forgotten and are to this day deeply apprecaiteive. The old guys are stopped on the street and asked for pictures and autographs and invited to speak at elementry schools.

Rick, Wisconsin, USA

Just typical anti-American attitudes and actions on the part of the French. I have personally experienced their attitudes towards us.

Fred Fosbury, Manassas, VA, USA

If anything is to blame, it is the French bureaucracy, not the people. You nuts who accuse the French of being wimps and ingrates simply don't know what you are talking about. In general, and mostly in particular, the French love Americans and detest their own government and bureaucracy.

Laurel700, Castelsarrasin, France

I can't believe how ppl can be so inintelligent. Yeah, right, WE, french ppl, have decided to cut ALL the tree with US engravings because we are insensitive, oh pl-ease.
Im sure u also have particulary idiotic local officials in ur "land of freedom". Burrying nuke wastes in Yucca native am. soil?

Will, Madrid, Europe...

That's it, I'm going to chop down the Statue of Liberty. That'll learn them French! ....Nah, actually I don't think this was an overt thumb to the eye of WWII vets of anything "Anti American" on their part. I think it would be cool historically if they were preserved as "Historic"

Hugh, Devon, USA

I've just read Ann. I can't believe the thought. These soldiers never created monuments, we decided thats what they were. I'm happy that the trees are seen as monuments, but I think we are lucky to have been given these freedoms by such a selfless generation.

Mike, NEWPORT,

Annastiina,

Didn't you just do the same thing by grouping all Americans based on the comments of a few?

Meanwhile, this was not a French decision. Indeed it was the decision of one elderly Frenchman who could not afford to prune them. Give him a break. The rest will be saved.

John C., Virginia Beach, VA USA

Tthe greatness of these trees was the fact that these inscriptions were made by the living hands of our great brethren, many of whom lost their lives. It's a link to their living moments. That is the beauty, because the inscriptions on their grave markers was made by the hands of someone else.

Kerry Brown, LA, CA

It is sad, but only because we now know about it. Yesterday we didn't and so we were not sad then. Those markings had that special place when the lonly GI carved his name and that of his girlfriend or wife. Those markings have stood their ground these long years and like the GIs mostly gone.

Ron English, Norman , USA

To say that we should look to the upkeep and great condition of American graves in bad logic. The graves of fallen American service men in France and other nations are maintained with the funds provided by US taxpayers thought the American Battle Monuments Commission http://www.abmc.gov/faq.php

Dave, NYC, US

Lets face it, the French have been eager to forget WWII for some time now. Especially the help America provided. In another few centuries, French text books will teach students (in Arabic) that the French threw off their NAZI occupiers all by themselves.

Agnitio, New York, USA

Sadly, for without this article, most of you probably didn't even know about these trees. The markings on these trees were never meant to be a permanent shrine to American involvement in WWII, nor should they be used for the latest French bashing just because they don't always agree us.

John, Virginia Beach, VA, USA

I blame France for the war in Iraq. If they had rejected Saddam's bribes from the Oil For Food scandal in the U.N. and sided with the U.S. in enforcing (truly enforcing!) the terms of Resolution #1441, then Saddam's only choice would have been to honor his commitments. France took Saddam's side.

Ted, Kitakyushu-shi, Japan

It's ridiculous that so many people are so quick with their bitter comments. I'm sure that the French people appreciate the efforts of American GIs in WWII. The cutting down of these trees doesn't mean that they don't care. For God's sake people, control yourselves.

Tony, NJ, USA

The younger generations , no matter their nationality,have no memory of the past nor an appreciation of history. I ,as an American, salute "the greatest generation"

Larry, N.Y., USA

Why is humanity doomed to repeat war ?

Because we forget.

The soldiers, the mistakes, the spirit of liberty, The Trees.

The opposite of war is not peace. The opposite of war is security and remembering enough not to leave security behing. . .

Charles, Ypres, France

As far as Nicola Jones posting regarding the Marquis de Lafayette arrival. The french only helped out once victory was a forgone conclusion and their assistance would only guarantee less destruction. Also, the french were more interested in recovering their costs of the french-indian was that GB

Matt, Bangor, ME, US of A

Trees die - buy them and preserve or get over it. To the Europe-hating Americans, stop with the stupidity! Consider how it looks to Europeans watching you needlessly destroy Manhattans historical buildings for skyscrapers and money. Buildings built by Euros, in a city "given" to you by the Dutch.

Richard Stevenson, Charlotte, USA

I'm sure he can EASILY get Donations to pay the Pruning costs AND with any excess funds, invest them to take care of any future pruning needs.

Tom, Joplin, USA

I don't think this was an anti-American act, just casual indifference. As another poster says, France will soon be a Muslim nation and Europe will change dramatically. We really need to get a handle on this issue of how to deal with a religion that wants to kill all who don't worship as they do.

Ross, Moline, IL, US

It is history, but not a monument. The tree would have died at some point anyway, not like a cave wall. But I would like to point out that the French and other Euro posters have no more class than the American posters here. Its funny how you say we have no class, while attacking the US. Good show

Clay, Tampa, USA

So I could tear down a marvelous stone gravity bridge built on my property just because I own it? It was built by Benjamin Franklin around 1756, and is on section of the Continental Road I keep in its original condition. But I won't, because I feel I have a duty to preserve a part of living history.

Joe, Poconos, PA, USA

While I am no fan of the French in general, On my tour of Normandy I found that the locals are still very very grateful for the allied forces sacrifices and pass this gratitude down to each new generation.

Dave , Boston, USA

...more evidence that the USA fought for the WRONG SIDE in Europe thanks to FDR & his left-wing mobsters. Had we not made our Great Mistake, Communism would have been crushed and Europe would have a European future to look forward to. Instead, we see trees felled for what... more mosques?

Dagbert, Washington, USA

Property rights should come first... but there can always be a compromise where an historical issues is at steak...FORr the wisenhimer quoting the French saved our keester 231 years ago... guess what... you, me, we, don't know for sure IF Lafayette was THE saving grace, BUT the US was in WWII!

Pete, Washington DC, USA

President Lincoln said at Gettysburg that we will remember what was done there far longer than what was said there. Pointe du Hoc and Omaha Beach are hallowed ground. What was done there will forever be remembered, no matter what else happens.

Roger Knight, Seattle, USA

Since there doesn't appear to be any actual addresses carved in the trees, just wondering who are the French going to call the next time they need their collected butts pulled out of the abyss?

John Daniels, Hartford, USA

Are not the French concerned about "global warming?" Why would they want to cut down ANY trees? ;-)

Fred, Pittsburgh, USA

its the BRITTISH who dont like Americans or anything about America. they never have and still do not to this very day. spitting mad that we were able to break away. the French helped us win the REVOLUTION. had they not,, we would still be bowing to the queen. we later returned the favor.

eric, rochester, USA

I've visited the US 3 times - CA, NY and NH. I have relatives in the US (they're mostly Republicans). The aggression, self-centredness and racism that I read in many of these posts astounds me. And saddens me. They do not represent the US citizens that I have met.

Judy, Soton, UK

Have to love those French folks, where is the dignity?

terry, Atlanta, USA

Why are you people turning it into some political statement. The man owns the trees. He cuts down trees to sell and make paper. Property rights.

I hope the French Govt., acts to declare some of these trees as monuments, but hell...it's this guy's living to cut them down and sell the wood.

Rob, Kansas City, usa

"Since 9/11, my hatred of europe has grown exponentially....
Matt, Chicago, USA"

I'm not entirely sure how mentioning 9/11 relates to this story... surely the US aren't going to try to use 9/11 as an excuse for imposing forestry laws on France?!

Kris, London,

To use this unfortunate incident as an excuse to bash the French is ridiculous. Nowhere did I read about French citizens chanting "Mort à l'Amérique!" while burning effagies of American GIs.

Evan, Cleveland, USA

Evan, Cleveland, USA: What an ignorance. I would like to know what was the base for the constitution, if not the European philosophers of the time?
But forgetting this - the opinions of the people from US are frightening. No wonder you so willingly go other countries to kill people (like in Iraq).

Annastiina M., Turku, Finland

To all Americans who are so horrified-think about how your Government treated your Vietnam veterans.To all Europeans who are being smug because they're only trees-it's what they represent that seems to be the issue.People, wherever they are, make mistakes.Today's problems need us to work together.

Chris, London, UK

How funny! The French call the US arrogant, the Germans call the US agressive and the Brits call the US imperialistic. Seems like we have learned a great deal from our European origins.

Lee, sterling, usa

Let's put the blame on the true culprits - the bureaucrats who could not, or refused, to recognize the historic value of the trees and offer the owner some assistance for the cost of pruning vs. cutting. Mindless bureaucrats are the enemy of free peoples everywhere..

RM, Portland, Oregon,

"Lafayette, we are here." The French helped us achieve Independence from England during the Revolutionary War. These where the words from a US general when US troops arrived in Normandy. The US and France has a history of being close allies. The allegiance has been between the people.

Raul, Houston, USA

To my fellow Americans, what happened was an unfortunate circumstance. Don't blame the whole country and its people for the actions of a few.

To my European brothers and sisters please don't let the words of a few uneducated Americans sully your impression of America as a whole.

Gina , Austin,Tx, USA

Seems like there could have been a better solution than just cutting down the tree's and making paper out of them. They probably could have saved the sections of the tree's that had WW II carvings. Very Sad

Christian S., Sarasota, FL, USA

It's just trees with some historical value. It doesn't mean they forgot what we did for them. A poster mentioned how there children learn the history of that war. Having it in school books has more impact that chicken scratch on a tree.

It was done for financial reasons. Not out of spite.

wes, Tacoma, usa

My cousin and five of his B-24 crew were killed liberating France. Their blood, and the blood of the 300,000 other American World War II casualties in Europe is too precious for such cynical indifference. Next time the Germans attempt world domination, Europe is on its own.

Steve, Austin, Texas, USA

I do not blame all of the French for cutting down some of these trees. It would be nice if they can preserve as many as possible. While there are many nice memorials around Europe, these were actually carved by real people. But also, do not blame all Americans for some of the angry posts here.

Mark Wilkins, Knoxville, TN, USA

Maybe they can use the profit from theses trees to start paying the US, the war debt they owe us from WWI.

John, Petersburg, USA

The trees weren't a memorial, but did have historical value. Too bad they weren't offered to a US museum, or at least photographed. Not an act of overt anti-americanism, more like a few people that simply didn't care and didn't think. My father arrived in France D Day +3. I'm not angry, just sad.

Jigs, Ewa Beach, HI, USA

Sad, truly sad. Then again, what do we expect from the French, appreciation and respect for our sacrifice? Of course, we who are outraged are just being 'ugly Americans'. Let's see how the French and EU feels about the 'ugly Americans' when the current terror immigrants you are taking in, take over.

Maurice Fitzgerald, DFW, TX,

Fred from Mesa--excellent point. What I found most disturbing was that the land owner was ordered to prune or remove the trees from HIS property--and at his own expense. That certainly doesn't sound like democracy to me!

Nina, Norristown, USA

I recall a work where memory is the central theme, and how seeing, smelling, touching, hearing all trigger memories in the narrator.

The name of the work, "Remembrance of Things Past", was written by a Frenchman...

John, Jacksonville, Florida

Thousands of American GI's died for the freedom of the French people, left their mark and their own government turns history into toilet paper. What next are they going to dig up the allied graveyards at Normandy for the beach front property?

"If we forget our history we are destined to repeat it"

James Wesley Buler III, Birmingham, AL , USA

jean-paul, if you don't like the USA, GO BACK TO FRANCE.

To all you enviro wacko's, trying living in a dwelling that's not made from wood, like a mud hut.

My grandfather was captured by nazi-pigs. They tortured this man by running him over with a steam roller. Forget tree's, honor the men.

Mike, Carterville, USA

The trees are trees. They are on private property. If the owner wants to cut them, he/she can cut them. I don't think the French are denigrating the American involvement in WWII because of this act. Lighten up, Americans: they are not digging up military graveyards to build an apartment complex

Jim P, Sacramento, United States

"Evan, Cleveland, USA: I wonder who was the base for the constitution if not the European philosophers of the time? Holy spirit? "

I believe I heard that the founding fathers were inspired by the egalitarian ways of Native American tribes. It's not always Europe you know!

Claudia, Atlanta, USA

Don't blame everyone for the stupidity of bureaucrats. The cemeteries are proof that our fathers' service is still honored.

As for those that hate America, I suggest they come see for themselves what this country is really like. My English and French ancestors did, and I'm glad they did.

Rick, Las Vegas, USA

History of the past eradicated, so the same scenario events can reoccur without guilt or pondering.......Soon the memories of WW@ will follow........

Sam, CRN,

These inscriptions are not "graffiti" . They are the real life human expressions of young men who left their country and left their sweethearts, wives and children to go fight and die for the cause of Freedom. In WW2 that meant Freedom for the World!! They represent all such young men! Treasures!!!!

Michael Grant Sanders, Corpus Christi, USA

Shows you how much the French appreciate the USA saving their bacon in WW II. Why don't we return the favor by melting down the Statue of Liberty to make cars?

New Yorker, NYC, USA

These etchings are not just "graffiti" sprayed on an underpass. They are the real life human expessions of young men who left their own country and their sweethearts, wives and children to go fight and die for the cause of Freedom. In WW2 that meant for the very Freedom of the World! Treasures!!!

Michael Grant Sanders, Corpus Christi, USA

Those of you who want to ban French products , WHO CARES you can even offord it anyway !!! all you can get here in the USA now , is products made in China , at least the French still make their own cheeses , bread and wine.
Don't we have more problems here ? Heath care !!! at least it is free in FR

jean-paul, st louis, usa

That is right in the area where my uncle went missing-maybe his name could have been on one of the trips-horrible
Mary, Plano, Texas

mary miller, Plano, usa

One thing that we all have in common here is that we are all wrong. No matter how sure that you have it all figured out, you are certainly missing something and so am I. The more sure of yourself you are, the further astray; I guess.

Dan, Santa Barbara, California

In the US we have been busy destroying Civil War trenches and emplacements around major battlefields in turn building condos, housing tracts, and clusters of McMansions.

Washington's (George not DC) Mount Vernon is but a patch of what it once was.

Precious history is being lost all over the world.

BR, dallas TX,

That was so stupid....He could have sold them ( the tree trunks) on EBay ,war memorabilia gets a good price here.

loydriley, Tuscaloosa, USA

You are all wrong....and....you are all right. It's going to just fine.
Ted, CA, USA

Ted Boonthanakit, Diamond Bar, United States

While the trees don't measure up to the original Constitution in importance, they served more as a record of daily life at a pivitol point in history. Certianly they don't rank with Anne Frank's diary, but are of the same vein. It's something that would've been nice to hold onto.

Daron, Orlando, Florida, USA

first of all are we all being serious. yes it is a tragedy that the trees where cut down. second if you were in the same position you would of cut them down too €800 to prune a tree thats ridicules. continued...

tom, Shreveport, LA, USA

Remember that the French did help us in the Revolutionary War with their navy, not to mention the generous Louisiana purchase that was made. Sure there's always selfish reasons for doing things, but maybe it's better to call it even. I would rather let them do what they want with their trees.

Derek, Dallas, USA

To our American friends scandalised by the destruction of these tree carvings from 60 odd years ago may I suggest taking a peek at the vandalism to ancient historical sites which had survived in Iraq for thousands of years until you lot got your hands on them. Now that's what I call destruction.

Mike Power, Aberdeen, Scotland

Next time they need us they can, um, just eat cake.

Seriously, though, George Washington wasn't just some old guy. He was a shrewd leader, and even way back in his day he was concerned about foreign entanglements and allegiances that may drag the US into war. This is just an example of why not.

Brad, duluth, USA

They're just trees, people, and the writings on them are no better than graffiti. Europeans, don't let some of these bad apples below make you think that Americans hate you ... most Americans love all things european, and all things french! We're not letting a few trees get between us!

Jefferson, Denver,

Having just returned from my Grandfathers' gravesite in Brittany, I know that the French take care of them. These trees are not true memorials and it is kind of ludicrous for people to try and say that they are. Get real, visit Normandy and realize that there are more than enough true honors given!

Gunner, Apollo Beach, United States

I don't think France has any oil Kevin, so I doubt the US would invade again.

Bruce, cradock, SA

quote: "..He was from Chicago, a long way from home. He gave his future away to help Europe and the rest of us.."

Oh please, America sat back for years while my forebears were being slaughtered, you only go involved (like you always do) when you could make money from it. And you want to save a tree

A. miller, Sydney, Australia

This is so depressing.Don't those of you posting comments generalising about millions of individual people ("I hate Europe/US/French") see the irony? This is exactly the kind of lazy, casual racism that laid the groundwork for Fascism in the first place. Grow up.

Sophia Lucas, Paris (originally US),

oh... so now people are up in arms about cutting down trees?
Clearcutting has wiped away millions of acres of forest from this earth. why are these trees in france any different than the millions of acres already destroyed? Read the Golden Spruce by John Vaillant... it says it all.

Pete Hayes, NYC, NY

This is insanely silly. I thank God that I've garnered enough curiosity and respect for others and their cultures that I will refrain from bashing on here. What occurred is a governmental entity forced a man to do something. He made the most economical decision. He showed no disrespect!

Dan , Hagerstown, MD, United States

It is nice that SOME French realize our young men died freeing them from Nazi occupation. This is just a small tesimony to the loss of life so that France could be free once again. My Grandfather was wounded early then returned to the lines and died in France helping to kick the Nazis out.

John Kolkman, Birmingham, USA

I am saddened to think that this country follows the USA in so much of its misguided thinking. The evidence for why we shouldn't follow is posted on here! Do you modern Americans even know where France is? We are grateful to all those that fought and died in WWII but come on, overreaction?

Graham, London, England

After reading this article, I have decided to take matters into my own hands. I am pledging right here and now that I am going to do everything in my power to increase my carbon footp out put and accelerate the melting of polar ice caps. That way, when France falls into sea I can say I did my part

Nolan, Bend, United States

I say, save what trees you can and have them taken to a WWII museum or something. The owner clearly did not want to do this and was given a horrible choice. Yes he could have pruned them, but the costs were higher. There are still many of the the French that remember what America did. Honor them

Wil, NC, USA

As an American and son of a WWII vet, the anti-French sentiments must end. You do a disservice to the GIs and all other allied soldiers who fought with their lives, and to the many French who sacrificed their lives and families fighting in the Resistance.

Jim, Chicago, USA

I'm confused - I'm getting the impression that some of you are tree-hugging republican hippies?

SID, London,

My dad, an Army officer who arrived on Omaha Beach on sixth June 1944, died only 104 days ago. My eight year old daughter, his granddaughter, was close to him and tells people he went to Europe on a ship to save the world. He did just that, as did all those GIs. They saved the world. Save the trees.

Glenn Mitchell, HoHoKus, NJ, USA

I think it's really sad that our soldiers mutilated the trees in another country. I wonder if the habit of egotistically hacking one's initials into an organism that will live longer than the men is an American phenomenon or worldwide? I'm ashamed that our people defaced those trees.

Jennifer Leaf, Priest River, Idaho, U.S.

John Ambers, Anchorage

The ONLY thing France was protecting in 2003 was their illegal and abominable 'oil for food' trade. Perhaps if Saddam didn't feel he had them in their pocket, he might have actually taken the UN sanctions/resolutions serious.

Mary Catherine, Elmhurst, USA

Typical Eurpoean petty malice and spite.

Billy Barnett, HK,

"the trees grew and the graffiti swelled and twisted"
A fond memory but not worth the vitriole expressed. Many posting need to gain a cultural understanding of the Frenc people as a whole. All Americans are not defined by Bush or Clinton. Between US posturing and French arrogance there is much ugly

Brian, Jacksonville, USA

Come on people, who's trees is it.

Now if you want to invade (i'm sure with no shots fired) I'm all for it. But until then they are theirs. Get over it.

John, Chesterfield, USA

My uncle was killed at the age of 19 in France during WW2. He was from Chicago, a long way from home. He gave his future away to help Europe and the rest of us.

I wonder if his name was on one of those trees?

Laura, Washington State,

Amazing that people like Matt, from Chicago, think that Europe is responsible for the 9/11 attacks.

He also probably does not realise that the language he speaks, orginates from England!
As for the trees, if you cared that much, then you would have helped the guy to keep them!!!

Carrie, London, England

If these trees that were slated for chopping had received publicity in the American press before their demise, I am sure
a fund drive would have been done to help prevent it. I wonder if photos were taken of some of the inscriptions so that there
would at least be a record of these unique carvings

Suzanne, Buffalo, NY

In the end perhaps a few fallen trees at the hand of a local government moving to fast will shed a little more light on the hundreds of thousands and fallen American Soldiers, who fought for the Freedom not for protection of their county, but so Freedom’s Bell Rings Loud and True around the World.

Jim Wilkinson, SpacePort, USA

The old man was stuck--he couldn't afford to do anything else but cut the trees. As for the French, when my brother in law graduated Ranger School there was a delegation there all the way from France for the anniversary of their town's liberation. They gave honor where it was due. Very nice people.

Julie Cochrane, Atlanta, Georgia, US

I am appalled at the comments that the US didn't do anything about this. The US did not know this was going to happen until it was too late. This happened because and old man had no choice but to cut because it was cheaper. None of the townspeople knew until after the fact. God bless USA

Rick, Novato, USA

To Joe, Louisa USA the federal govt did see the cat 4 storm and talked with local authorites. the governor and the mayor failed to act in timely manor to get people out of New Oleans and did not give feds the ok to come in before the storm which means the mayor and governor were in charge

bob, St. Louis , USA

Our governments may disagree and thumb each other's nose, but I do know that if ever needed, individual french, brits, aussies etc will stand shoulder to shoulder for freedom.

God bless the men at Normandy. The true symbol, as one said below, is a free Europe.

I love our brothers across the pond.

Marty, Atlanta, GA, USA

We should save these trees as we honor by graves in a cemetery those who died fighting for freedom for our country and our allies. History will never be the recipient of what these GIs have done if the trees are destroyed. This is another part of history which could be forgotten and lost .

Lee Le Fort, Jacksonville, FL, USA

In reading the comments it is clear there is a huge difference of opinion those of the world and those in the USA have on this issue of trees.

I really wish more people from the world would come visit the US. It would change your view of the US. It is grander then you can possible image.

david , River Falls Wi, USA

We are all OK it's a big mistake. But american people who travel in France could be witness that all cities in France have a monument or a museum or a cimetery about WWII. The "old Europe" never forget the US help her in this war... Have a large vision in this case please. (sorry for my english).

Boulland, Saint Pierre de Varengeville, France

It was just an honest mistake. Put it in perspective. These trees only live 150-200 years so they weren't going to stay there forever anyway. If you want to make a difference, help save the rain forests and nature's beauty. The graffiti isn't work of art and it's not like they destroyed tombstones.

John, Omaha, USA

Heather in Winnipeg: If 42,000 Canadians had not died in WW2, and 291,000 Americans, would you be free now? If the National Socialist Germany, or the medievally militaristic Japan, or the Stalinist Soviet Union, were the sole remaining super power, can you imagine that you would be free to speak?

Glenn, New Jersey , United States

Nothing I have ever seen is more humbling or evokes a greater sense of sacrifice and respect than the perfectly maintained cemeteries honoring those Americans and Canadians who sacrificed their lives in Normandy. There is no doubt these places of honor exist because of a grateful nation.

Bill Burns, Bedford, NH

"A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love."

Unfortunately good deeds do indeed get lost.

Joe, Walnutport, PA, USA

I agree with many of you that it's a lost of history, a slap in the face of those who fought and died, but it's interesting that our government says nothing and does nothing.

If we are the one of the riches countries in the world, then surely we could have made arrangements for saving the trees

Allen, Louisville, USA

The U.S. did NOT want to enter into WW II- it was 8 months after Japan attacked America did we defend ourselves. The U.S. is a beautiful land of the free, not the perfect, full of diverse people willing to die for freedom, justice, honor & principle. G-d bless all of America, esp. our Veterans!

Pamela Stallard, RN, LNC, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA

My outrage is with the beurocratic bungling that allowed this to happen. That those quoted seem every bit as dismayed as I feel is an excellent indicator that this is not an us/them proposition.

Some bean counter lost sight of the big picture. Happens every day all over the world.

Bill K., Pinson, AL, USA

One day the French will remember what has been forgotten. They are lost children, driven by political coorectness and socialist government. That will be their un-doing. We will rescue them from themselves one day, once again. That is who we are.

Rodney, Abilene, U.S.A.

it is sad that these personal marks in history are no longer visible. what saddens me more is that there are people being so juvenile to point fingers of blame. hatred is spreading throughout the world from ignorance and stubborness

gibson, illinois, USA

This is not about Iraq.This is not a personal attack on Americans (hard evidence please). I'm glad this story came out so the narrative can now be shared. Had the trees been destroyed by storms would we be angry? Read the story not into the story. Save your vitriole, on both sides, for a real issue

Brian, Jacksonville, USA

Let France protect itself next time it is danger. Actualy France would be a good place for the United Nations to move to.

Mike Hanks, Phoenix , AZ., USA

There seems to be a collective opinion of those who are not American, that "we" stick our noses into everyother countries business? Let me ask you this... If your country were to fall under attack, the US did not respond, and you lost all your countries heritage to a forgein aggressor... what then?

Jim, Veteran, USA

It shows that the people of France and the world are strating to forget the history of WWII and tragedies that resulted from the conflict (over 50 Million dead). As the old saying goes, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it."

Mark, Canoga Park,

*shakes his head at some of the comments from the US*
Ok, first of all, I'm sure Sarkozy wasn't the great mastermind behind this.Second, I didn't see where France went to the polls to vote of cutting down the trees. Stop blaming the whole nation for the actions of some bureaucrats.

Cody, Dallas, United States

I spent time in Rouen when it was a pile of rubble in 1944,
on the river Seine aboard our US Coast Guard LST 27, survivor of the D-Day landings but never witnessed the beech trees with the carvings on their trunks. The trees are now where most of the veterans are, erased by history and indifference.

Tony ( Archangelo) Leone, csc , Ft. Edward,ny 12828, USA

It is utterly a shame. Where are the historians? The people the USA saved during those terrible days? Has the French government forgotten our bond? What would be said if we tore down the Great Lady in New York..... Which would not happen because she is a United States ICON and not a French one.

Brenda , Gilroy , The United States of America

Just out of curiousity, how many people who are so anti-French and so supportive of these particular trees actually knew of the trees prior to this article? I didn't know about them. Is it sad? Yes, of course, but in the grand scheme of things, this is a small matter, very small.

Joseph, Amarillo, USA

Guten Tag, France...

Mike, Riverside, USA

Since Monsieur Robin is at the proper age where he probably remembers WWII as a child, I would think he would have at least shopped around for a tree trimmer who would not have the audacity to gouge him. He has little regard for the American lives that were given up to keep him free from the Nazis.

Anne Kurtz, Covington, GA, USA

To David, in Edinborough, Scotland...as I recall from the history books, it took 3 years of preparation, while propping up the reeling UK, before the Allies were ready to invade Europe. If a scourage ever again rolls across the EU, I hope we will just stay on the sideline.

Mike, Pensacola, FL,

Reminds me of the old joke, "Why are all the streets in France lined with trees?..... The Germans do not like marching in the sun."
Everyone is missing the point here. This is a defensive move on the part of France to avoid future invasion.

John, London, UK

It sure is funny how all of the liberals who would normally be outraged by the cutting down of ANY tree at ANY time are so understanding about the felling of these trees

Timothy Peacock, Visalia, USA

What would the world be like without the USA? Probably pretty dark and cold. The better question is what would the world be like without France? The best question is what can we do to make that happen?

Adam, Baton Rouge, LA, USA! USA! USA!

Ah well, more dissention between two democratic countries. While you people continuing spewing hatred at each other, democracy vs democracy, the real enemy is mostly likely having a field day. Divided they fall.....

Andrew, NY, USA

Andy from "Notts" - Get a life - The US pulled everyones rear end out of the fire in WW 1 and also WW 2 -- I didn't fight in World War 2 - I was only a year old when it ended - but that doesn't reduce my right to be proud of what our soldiers did and to be saddened by the lack of appreciation shown

Gery, Arcadia, USA

Our family members returned from that war with both physical and emotional scars because they believed in freedom. The world doesn't owe anything to the United States. I think its a tragedy that the people who's culture we saved from being butchered by the Nazis choose to have no regard for ours.

Lance, San Francisco, US

It's sad that the old trees were taken out, but ultimately it's the person who owns the land's decision. And until France (and/or Europe) does away with private property rights... Or the environmental extremists make chopping down a tree worthy of life in prison... The owner can do as they wish.

Mike, Memphis,TN, U.S.A.

Having been to Normandy with my father's PIR, I can tell you that the Noman People are still very appreciative. The kids stop the old Guys on the street and ask for photo's and autograph's. The Vets are invited to speak at schools. The history is taught to the young. I was never so moved.

Rick, Wisconsin, USA

I don't think many in the U.S. are under the impression that the U.S. entered the war to be philanthropic. Just as the British did not become openly involved until attacked, while the U.S. covertly supported Britian prior to entering the war, it took a direct attack for the U.S. to enter combat.

Beth, Allenstown, NH, USA

On face value ..... this is a "screw-up"....... I do not take it personally. And I - in all due respect to the fallen and injured American and other nations' sons - don't feel that they intentionally said "hey let's cut down these 'American' trees.. Live and learn... if they fell more - PROBLEM!

Beau, SF, USA

For gods sake. Some tree's. Who cares if some American's wrote on them. They're just trees. Plant some nicer ones there in a few years time and everyone should be happy.

Allan O'Dwyer, Dublin, Ireland

Seems like some one could find the cash to get the trees pruned without making this such a big deal.

Michael, Norton, USA

I love how some Scotsmen forget the aid they received by America as well. Did it take three years for America to enter the war? Officially, yes. But, either way had we not....you would be speaking German right now!

Ben Sark, Absecon, USA

David, Edinburgh, Scotland..
Have you been to north America? You talk as if everyone there has been over here. Why don't we go to Scotland? It's because your own people tell us not to come there. You can't possibly have it both ways. Stop being played by the BBC or whatever you watch over there.

Michael, Montreal, Canada

TO all the Americans that are so horrified at this occurrence: Yes, this is regrettable, but only because it is a loss of human history. Not because it is a loss of American history. If you are tired of the world's ungratefulnesses, please do the world a favour, and stay home.

Heather, Winnipeg, Canada

To some it was just a tree, too bad they weren't in the rainforest...the entire world would be there to save them. Those carvings were done by our long lost dads, uncles, grandfathers and friends. Charcoal on the wall of a cave gets headlines.... I guess it it easy to forget that they were there.

Dave Martinelli, Waxahachie Texas, USA

I can't help but notice the number of posts from the US. How many of those people posting here actually fought in the war?

Does France really owe you guys an apology because you are American? Or is it your god-given right to get angry about pointless things that don't involve you?

andy, notts,

Hey David from Scotland: What have the Scots done? Other than lose to the English and accept financial. Scotland could not survive without aid. PS. It was the goodness of the USA that saved Europe from itself, not once but twice. Stand on your own Scotland, its about time!! Stop relying on others.

Simon, saint louis,

If people wanted these trees protected, then they should have purchased the land themselves or compensated the landowner accordingly. It's certainly sad to see such trees go, but the owner should have the freedom to do what he wants with his land so long as it doesn't actually harm anyone else.

Laura, Memphis, TN, USA

How typical of the French.

John, Lansing, USA

Where can I buy a tree?

Pat, Erie, USA

Dear David, Edinburgh, Scotland:

You may one day learn that during those 3 years it took the US to save France out of the goodness of our hearts we were dealing with another minor matter in the Pacific Ocean. Not to mention Africa & Italy. Our apologies for not coming to France's rescue sooner.

Dan, New York, USA

Since 9/11, my hatred of europe has grown exponentially. This is just one more finger in the collective American eye.
Matt, Chicago, USA

Matt, the 9/11 terrorists on the whole, came from your main ally, Saudi Arabia, Whats European about that? They have more oil!

Rob Bain, Derby,

Don't we have enough enemies in the world? France is the birthplace of modern democracy. Her philosophers and revolutionaries helped form the thinking which gave rise to our Constitution and Bill of Rights. Sad the trees were lost, but not worth denigrating a fellow democracy and its citizens.

Brad, Washington, DC, USA

of course the typical 'you'd be speaking german if it wasn't for us' comments keep coming out. as if people here would just pick up the language.

anyway v sad the trees got cut down but it was the decision of a few stupid individuals. not an entire nation.

Deno, Preston, England

This shows disregard for historical ties across the Atlantic when we worked to defeat a common enemy. It also shows that European history is under attack from socialists. Unless common citizens of Europe speak up, your history and culture will be devoured by a growing Islamist population.

Dwight, Kansas City, USA

An Army vet, I love my country, the champion of personal and economic liberty. I've been to France 3 times. The most impressive thing? There is NO monument to the Franks (pre-French) stopping the Muslims at Tours in 732. It was a decisive battle, every bit as crucial as D-Day. Let's not be mad.

Fred, Houston, USA

Please tell me if I have this wrong. The help the French gave us in the revolution was paid for in 1800s by the USA. I would like to know how many payments the French have made to the USA for the help we gave in WW1 and WW2. To my knowledge their have been no payments.

Chris, Quincy, USA

These trees were private property (not a monument), and the landowner was forced, for economic reasons, to fell them, under duress, by the civil servants in charge of providing safe transportion infrastructure. Its a shame to have to fell any old trees but not a slur on the french people.

Mark, Live Free or Die, USA

How many times do we have to wipe the spit from our faces? No other country gives, sacrifices, and seeks to help other countries as much as the United States of America. This is just another example of ungodly ungratefuls trying to erase our noble history.

Nicole, Colorado Springs, United States of America

I love the way some Americans think they came to the aid of the French out of the goodness in their hearts. If so, it took them three years of revelation to get there! However, I do appreciate they eventually did. How many of the sabre rattlers have actually visited an Allied cemetery in Europe?

David, Edinburgh, Scotland

If there is any area of France and for that matter all of Europe, where they appreciate what the American GI did for them and for France it is Normandy. I regret the loss of the historical value of the trees but to blame the entire country for the actions of some bureaucrat is disingenuous.

Jim S, Boston, MA, USA

This is a very sad event. However, if those who visit Normandy visit places like St Mare Eglise or Bayeux and see the remembrance, care and thoughfulness demonstrated in the museums run by the French, it would be harsh indeed to take one example of ignorance by officials to represent a nation.

Alistair McLean, Edinburgh, Scotland

As a Brit who has visited St Nazaire in naval uniform, I have the experience of French people actively walking up to us to say "thank you for coming and we have never forgotten" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Nazaire_Raid Hmmm..guess the rednecks here might be upset we blew up an ex-US destroyer!

Andrew , Henley-on-Thames, UK

To Dan from Tokyo, who states that Americans weren't fighting for anyone but themselves: Was Britain fighting for Poland? Was Russia fighting for France? The Allied forced all played a role, but none for altruistic reasons. As for Joseph Kennedy, he was recalled in 1940 in light of his views.

Evan, Cleveland, USA

When a country is liberated, the people who live there are given their country back. The French have control over their trees, no one else. I'm sure the American GI's wouldn't have turned back if they knew their mindless scratchings would have been cleared away sixty years later. Enough people!

Jason, Colorado Springs,

My guess is that like I at first only saw the headline.
When I read the whole story I understood the ol guy's local officials told him the trees had to be trimmed.
He did not have the $192,000.00 to do it.
I'm sure he was as heartbroke as we are when he had to have them cut down. Save the rest.

Pete, Smithville, USA

To the French people, I'm sorry we couldn't save you from the savages of Socialism.

I've already forgiven you.

Vince, Portland, OR,

Many are missing the point. What kind of society allows "local officials" to dictate to a landowner that he has to cut down over 150 trees on his private property. The trees were deemed unsafe. Unsafe for whom? Trespassers?

Fred, Mesa, AZ, USA

Would someone PLEASE take good digital photos of the carvings on the remaining trees? The trees themselves don't need to be preserved, but it would be a shame not to record what is/was there. Genealogy websites or other historical websites would be a good place to post the images.

Annette, Lakewood, USA

As an American who owns property IN NORMANDY, and whose grandfather fought in WII, I dare those who generalize about a French "lack of gratitude" to post specifics on the point. There are many momuments and all of the French persons I speak with there are grateful for liberation. Come on, xenophobes

James, Brooklyn, USA

Sounds to me the indifference of the French to this lines up nicely with the anti-American thought of the country. Nothing like insulting us through apathy by letting these trees fall. I of course cannot be sure of this but it sounds like an indirect political statement through inaction.

Lance, Edmond, USA

I;ve been to Normandy and it is loaded with WW II monuments and other evidence of the appreciation that the French felt and still feel for the sacrifices made by the allies during the invasion.

Carlyle , Caldwell, USA

This is an absolute disgrace.

Douglas, Varberg, Sweden

Had the carvings been made by British soldiers, I'd like to think that comments here would show a little more humour than those of travel-shy U.S. folk whose view of the world derives almost exclusively from what they did in WW2. Odd to think that Americans buy more German cars than the Germans do.

Phil, London, England

This is not just an American loss. It seems just as many Frenchmen, if not more, are unhappy with what their countrymen have done (or allowed to occur). While we've squabbled at times like siblings, we're on the same side of most important matters, and the "French" are not the villians here.

Steve, Long Beach, CA, USA

The US Navy was actively fighting the Nazis long before the Japs attacked Pearl Harbor.....

...you do remember THAT.....right?....

Erik, Palo Alto California, U.S.A.

To France, I love your country. Its a wonderful historic place. I plan to visit again soon.
To England, Where would we be with you? Thanks

I ask you to take a fresh look at history and ask yourself "what would the world be like without the USA? I say it would be a far more dangerous place

Chris, Dallas, USA

I guess it's not truly fair to blame "all" the French for this..

That would be as foolish as saying "all" Americans are "hateful" because of a few online comments postings..

Still, the behavior is shameful, ungrateful & smacks of a secular society & all that that entails I said that & stand by it.

Pam&W, NJ, USA

If the Japanese had not attacked the Americans at Pearl Harbour, what would have happened?
Things would have carried on the same, big business doing huge deals with the Nazis, who said they could not have attacked Poand without American help! Look up American Big Business and the Nazis.

margie , victoria , australia

A lot of ignorance coming from all sides here. I've been to Normandy and the French clearly appreciate the sacrifices made by all toward the liberation of their country. Should they never pave their roads again either because allied tanks, vehicles and soldiers traveled across them? This is silly

Andy, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

Well, France, you are welcome for the blood of my countrymen spilled in the cause of your freedom. I'm sure we'd do it again, too, if need be. Though I'm confounded as to why we'd want to.

Kevin, Minneapolis, USA!

Having a Grandad who fought in WWII and was at the Rhine River Crossing, it is sad that a litle piece of history cannot be saved by rerouting the roads or making monuments out of the remaining roads. One day all that will be left is pictures for people to look at instead of visiting actual landmarks

Richard, Phenix City, Alabama, USA

Breaks my heart but doesn't surprise me at all from the French.

Someday...

L, Nahant,

Someone has an "axe to grind" , I guess.

jbret, Lake Forest, USA

"The opinions of the people from US are frightening: everything is either black or white. Annastiina M., Turku, Finland"

This is clearly untrue if you look at all of the posts. Many are balanced though some are not. Should we say that Finns are wrongheaded and judgmental based on your post?

Doc, Norfolk, USA

To all the French haters - Get over it.

This wasn't some intentional French insult to the U.S. GIs that fought in WW 2. There are many real monuments to American heroes in France.

And one more thing, regarding Iraq - FRANCE WAS RIGHT.
The war is a hopeless waste of blood and treasure.

John, Tulsa,

The Americans did not fight for anybody but themselves. They had to be bombed into war by the Japanese, and had war declared on them by the Germans. Then they let the Russians do most the fighting. While Britain was being pounded by the Germans, ambassador Joe Kennedy was supporting Germany.

Dan, Tokyo,

Just put the tree trunks in a WWII museum for crying out loud.

Kurtis, Asheville, USA

So if I carve my name on your tree I own it? What nonsense is that?
The property owner does what he thinks is best.
This is called liberty.

The true American way would be to purchase the land and trees and set it up as a momunent if you wish.

But it's easier to be offended.

Karl Heckman, Portland, USA/ Oregon

editorialstaff net notes:The Nasty French have also bought our finest whiskey distiller. Talk about insults. Laugh with me, when spoiled French wine makers turn unsellable wines into ethanol or shoe polish, et al, but join me, let's demand the return of Wild Turkey's distillery to US ownership.

Franklin Lomax, ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, USA

To Steve,

Mr Robin, who owns the trees did not cut them down of his own free will, or make a profit from them. He was ordered, under threat of 'action' against him by the local 'authorities'. He was forced to take the option of least expense. His own comment was 'It’s complete madness...'

Scott Maxwell, Philadelphia, USA

We can't save every building, every tree, every little thing from the past. There are plenty of WWII memorials. How many of you had even heard of these trees before now? This shouldn't even be news. And with all this hate I'd be tempted to chop them all down if I were French.

Bill, Louisville, USA

Evan, Cleveland, USA: I wonder who was the base for the constitution if not the European philosophers of the time? Holy spirit?
But disregarding that - The opinions of the people from US are frightening: everything is either black or white. Few trees were cut and now France is among the axle of evil

Annastiina M., Turku, Finland

Oh, the grumpy old French chop down some remarkable trees..what else can one expect. Just so they don't start digging up our war deads' graves. We will spend millions taking care of the Statue of Liberty that you gave us.

Cyn, Virginia Beach, USA

After the horors these GIs went through on D-Day I thank God these trees were there to occupy their time and minds. I hate to hear they are gone, on the ther hand, I have never heard of them before today. The trees fulfilled a need. For this I am greatful.

Steve M., Morgan City, La, USA

James in Manchester, if you read the article carefully, you'll see that he was given a choice by the government - prune the trees or chop them down... that IS government taking away private property rights... not that the French understand rights.

Greg, Ankeny, USA

Let's not bash the entire French people for the thoughtless actions of the bureaucracy. The article clearly states that the locals and others were upset.

Kind of hypocritical as we sit idly by as acres and acres of our Civil War battlefields are sold off for another Walmart or strip mall.

Derek, Rochester, New York

Why didn't someone put some spotted owls in the trees?

gary, Warren, USA

Leave it to the French to once again snub the huge sacrafice/contribution American solders made on their behalf. I am not at all surprised the officials chose to cut down these trees. They should be thankful they're not speaking German now...

Rob, Reno, NV, USA

My grandfathers WWII unit was sleeping outside in the winter to liberate France, and they cut down some trees for a fire to keep warm. Later they were given a bill from France for the trees they had cut down. The French show contempt for the American military, even when we bail them out-repeatedly

Karina, Chicago,

Is there really any point to this thread anymore? This bickering is really childish. My grandfather fought in WWII and I bet he's laughing that you all have nothing better to do. Get back to work; that's what I'm going to do.

Kevin, Columbus, OH, USA

Take note that the policies that caused these trees to be destroyed ... are LIBERAL policies, as if the forests could not get along with out us.

Nothing good EVER comes from liberals, they claim good intentions, but always end up a disaster, this is just another example.

Tom, NYC, USA

It is only graffiti on a tree. Our remembrance cermony is only flowers on some piece of concrete called a cenotaph. Tommy Smith and John Carlos only raised hands in gloves at the 1968 Olympics. The constituent parts of symbols are indeed worthless. But what they represent is invaluable.

Asitha Rodrigo, London, United Kingdom

My granduncle fought Franco in the 30's and Hitler in the 40's. He fought against those who couldn't see the good in others.

This article is about bureaucracy but now ALL French are tainted.

Take war vet hospitals everywhere - look in our own backyards first. He who is without sin ....!!

Murph, Dublin, Ireland

I suspect this is an isolated case. I have always found the French living near the Normandy beaches to be very apprecitive of the allies sacrifice during WWII.
In fact, most of the time if you see a French flag flying you will also see an American, British, or Canadian flag flying next to it.
kp

kp, denver, usa

I think the land owner missed a golden opportunity to auction off those trees in pieces as war historical souvenir's. At 79 years of age he must not be familiar with the "internet" and online auctions. Anyway, I'm not all that worked up over this but I guess it's a valid news story. (A US Vet)..

Ralph, fahaheel, kuwait

Sparky,

If and when you ever own a house, and if it burns down with all of your photo albums and vidoes and cd's of your life and that of your familys------remember, they are merely tokens and minor examples fo what went on in your life. No big deal to lose them.

Wake up.

Gary M., Madison, CT

Hold on a minute, my American cousins. You guys are always banging the drum about individual property rights, as you should do. The guy who is chopping down the trees owns them. They are his! If he operates a business that fells trees for the manufacture of paper, guess what people... TIMBER!!!
James, Manchester,
You’re no cousin of mine, bud.

Steve, Nashville, USA

when all of france is under Sharia law the US should just sit back and laugh.

robert, chicago, US

The french author Francois de La Rochefoucauld said it best "Gratitude is just the secret hope of future favors".

Matt, Bangor, ME, US of A

Let us not forget that France paved the way for the EU and the Euro in an attempt to slam the value of the U.S. dollar's dominance, along with the U.S.. "Mission accomplished." Don't take my word for it though, go reasearch it, thoroughly.

RG, Bay Area, CA, United States of America

pathetic.

france will soon be a muslim nation. a country that was christian, instrumental in the crusades, gave so much to western civilization.now a leader in the west's decline and self-destruction. destroying these trees, for no reason but greed and indifference is sad testimony to its future

rod, houston, usa

We do the same thing here in the U.S., so why get on France's case? Go to most Revolutionary and Civil War battlefields that haven't been turned into parks and try to find any evidence of the battle. Trenches have been bulldozed, historical structures are now parking lots or shopping centers, etc.

Rick, Atlanta, U.S.A.

NM, London: The US Constitution was adopted in 1787, avant 1789, when the French "Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen" was adopted. The French Constitution wasn't adopted until 1958.

Evan, Cleveland, USA

The owner of the property obviously can't afford to have them pruned, cutting them down is much less expensive. If all the people who think this is a tragedy sent the owner $10 then these trees could be be pruned. It's not a huge amount of money, just a large amount to the person who owns the land.

Paul, Louisville, USA

What's the big deal? France has MANY wwii memorials all throughout their country. I hate chopping down a tree, especially an old one, but I feel that property rights should come first. Its interesting, but it's no museum.

Patrick, Nashville, USA

All the Americans pointing out you saved the French, you may be interested to know 231 years ago today that the Marquis de Lafayette arrived in the American colonies to help your rebellion, you may never have gained your independence without French help.Don't we all just hate bureaucrats?

Nicolas Jones, London, UK

Many in the US might not care about France anymore, William Atlanta but they still love all things French. Have you seen the price of second hand Chanel on Ebay.com - its outrageous! The French are not perfect but they make beautiful things, clothes, food and wine - the best actually.

Mrs Sunday, Northwood, Middlesex

As usual, the comments from US readers are mostly biaised, mis-informed ( but we're used to it, remember WMD ?), intolerant, and show a complete lack of understanding of history or culture of other countries. France can't be fossilized for the sake of what happened 64 years ago.

Cesari, Paris, France

As radical Islam slowy invades Europe, the French will have no choice but to lay down and acquiece. They'll be no more G.I.s, no more D-Days, and no more American compassion to liberate them this one last time.

David Adams, Atlanta, USA

William - Atlanta,
You must be joking - taking over the mission in IndoChina ? It was a French colony, do you mean that you wanted it to become a US colony ? Nah ! You grossly failed as we did, but wasting far more troops, equipement, civilians to satisfy US weapon manufacturer, as in Irak..

Cesari, Paris, France

So next time they can get rid of their invaders by themselves. My uncle fought in the trenches of WW I and suffered all his life from the after affects of mustard gas attacks by the Germans.

France--you're welcome.

Ann, Minnesota,

The trees are not a monument or a tribute. They are the scars of a war and little more than 60 year-old graffiti carved into the trunk of a tree.

I seriously doubt that the intent of the cutting was directed at the GI that long ago passed that way. Don't read more into the act that is there.

Sparky, Hamersville, Ohio, USA

I'll say this, while I may not hate the french for their indifference to enduring memories of their liberators and friends, I certainly don't love them for it. It's only history, and apparently more valuable to us than them - live and learn.

Mark, Jersey City, USA

My French Grandparents - grandpere was an Honor Guard of the Drapeau / French Military prior to 1905 - are weeping in their graves about this sacrilege since many of their friends lost sons in Europe during WW II. I will not tell my father of this shame - some lost sons were his boyhood friends.

Dennis, Detroit & Tampa, U.S.A.

Stop Stop Stop!!!!
The true honor lies with our fallen brothern in graves throught Europe. Not with trees on some patch of land in France. I do thank the French for their care of the graves ALL the fallen Heros of the Allied Forces. Lets not forget what we fought and are still fighting for Freedom!

Jeff VSO, Clarksburg, West Virginia, USA

This is amazing.

A story about the felling of trees in France opens up a line of comment that firmly divides US against France / Europe and also UK against France.

No wonder there are people of all codes / colours / religions still dying in the name of a book / territory / perceived freedom. SAD

Murph, Dublin, Ireland

They were his trees.

J Royer, Geneve,

It's their country and they can do what they like about it. Everyone seems to be eternally looking to be outraged and indigent about something. My grandfathers fought the Nazis with valor and that honor cannot be taken from them. The French are entitled to do whatever they want in their own country.

Bill Rogers, Los Angeles, USA

Well, perhaps we should do nothing when the next scourge threatens their silly, inane way of life. Just sit back and watch instead of sending our young men to die so valiently for a nation of wimps and ingrates. Cut the trees...we hold our heroes in our hearts.

Sandra, Clearwater, USA

Despite countless pleadings from John Adams, the French waited off-shore and only entered the American Revolution when the British army was pushed to the sea at Yorkyown in the last battle. Lafayette was our only true friend. The French did not care about America but defeating the British.

Clem, NYC, USA

It's a shame that none of the officials involved stepped in with common sense and decency. To destroy these trees without allowing historians to perhaps buy them and preserve them in a museum is a shame. I don't blame all of France, just those that were involved.

Rob, Independence, KY, USA

At first i was a little taken aback, but honestly, after being protested and hated by the French for 60 years, including taking over the mission in French Indo-china from them and being blamed for Vietnam because of it, i just dont care anymore about France. MANY in the US feel like this now.

william, Atlanta, USA

James in Manchester got it wrong - the government caused him to fell the trees against his own wishes. This is not individual property rights but the imposition of government power on those rights. Perhaps we read English differently here?

Steve Fitzgerald, Leavenworth, United States of America

Hold on a minute, my European cousins. You guys are always say we are too capitalistic and what he did was capitalism. I disagree as he was being forced to trim the tree by government. Had he been in the US, he would have Ebay the tree for a small fortune.

Randy, Tequesta, USA

Blake old buddy- Rousseau might have something to say about that . Also, where was Locke from ?? Kant?? Maybe your world historys a bit rusty too...infact..when was the Constitution written, eh?? Apres 1789 perhaps..

NM, London,

Maybe some of the vinegar for the french bureaucrats could be poured on our own bureaucrats, too. We should worry more about taking care of those who make it back from war than getting all up in arms about these trees. More a sad commentary on tiny local bureaucrats than any giant national slap.

KJ, florida, earth

Hold on a minute, my American cousins. You guys are always banging the drum about individual property rights, as you should do. The guy who is chopping down the trees owns them. They are his! If he operates a business that fells trees for the manufacture of paper, guess what people... TIMBER!!!

James, Manchester,

25 million Russians killed in the war, but they effectively destroyed the German army by the end of 1943. D-day happened 2 years too late. It served two functions, it shortened the war by maybe a year and checked the progress of the 6 million man Red Army in Germany. But D-day did not win the war.

Billy, Exeter, UK

Perhaps Fred, Alexandria, VA, USA should realise that the time of the American Rebellion was one of the few times the French Navy was superior to the British Navy and prevented reinforcements arriving from Britain this was especially so at Yorktown.

Grumps, LANCING, UK

Annastiina from Finlad,

It was us the Americans that gave the french the basis for their Constitution, read up un your world history.

Blake, Prairieville, USA

Apparently some Alaskan's suffer from permanent brain freeze. Historically, any losses suffered in Iraq are insignificant. How many died in Vietnam? World wars I &II in Europe? More died at Iwo Jima in 6 weeks than have died in Iraq in 4 years 60, 000 dead at Gettysburg in 3 days. Get the drift?

Jim S, Boston, MA, USA

What? The French played a pivotal roll in achieving our independence, yes, but providing the basis of our Constitution? I think you've got your revolutions mixed up there. If anything, it was an extension of the already well established British system more so than any French inspired creation.

Nathan, Phoenix, USA

Well, so after all this time the French finally did something to salvage their honor. How nice.

Tracy Wynn, Aspen, Colorado, USA

The Seven Years War and hatred of Britain, not any love of America, let alone rights or liberty, led France to aid of the Yanks in their Revolution. The Treaty of Paris did not end the war. In reality, it continued until Waterloo. It was just France's best interests to support the Yanks.

Bob Evans, Anaheim, California

I don't know...the times we live in are interesting to say the least. Am I upset over the tree felling? I would have to say it depends on the motives. If it were simply for hatred towards the US,then yea that upsets me. Alot of our boys are in the ground over there having fought and died...

Joe, Indiana, USA

Oh my god. I just read the comments and I am desolated. Somebody cuts down some trees and the Americans are full of hate towards the whole country, and some even towards the whole Europe! And if you say that France has never done anything for you... Well, they gave you the base of your constitution!

Annastiina Mäkilä, Turku, Finland

If we Americans look to our own government, we will find plenty of equivalent gaffes -- regardless of what party we support. It may be sad that the trees have been felled, but it's certainly no reason to jump wholesale into hatred of France. Patriotism, after all, is not synonymous with bigotry.

BK, Chicago, USA

The only people to blame for the problems after Katrina are the ignorant animals who decided to go looting instead of getting to safety. The libs make it sound like there was no weather before Bush! The fact that some people made it through Katrina just fine means the others could have, too.

Al Santangelo, West Haven, USA

The French chopped the trees?
Are you serious?
Do you REALLY think the we, the French, took a collective action, as a nation, to chop those trees?
Blaming a whole nation for the stupid action of a few individuals is ridiculous.
Oh, by the way, France is not a Socialist country. Oh no, it isn't

MAURIN, Frejus, FRANCE

Dude, now I really think us Yanks should go back to calling it "Freedom Fries" and "Freedom Toast". Veuve Clicquot is the only French thing worth a euro.

S Wink, Los Angeles, Good ol US of A

Shakespeare suggested we kill all the lawyers...why not do in the bureaucrats at the same time.

joseph blough, Washington,

Might not the French authorities have preserved the trees by conducting an aution "for the poor" or to erect a small memorial, or whatever? Some Americans would have bid on the trees, as might particular museums.

R. Wolf, Milton, United States of America

They are just trees a fitting memorial to those fallen in the cause of freedom is not tree nor stone nor endless gratitude to any for the sacrifices of their ancestors,a fitting memorial is to preserve that hard won freedom for future generations and to stand ready to fight expansionist tyrannies.

M. Wilcox, Las Vegas, USA

If one cannot tell the few broken aristrocrats fleeing creditors during the Revolution from the immesurably huge US contribution to WWI and WWII, you should look up in a good dictionary the meaning of the word "proportion". Although Lafayette did exist let us not exxagerate his contribution.

J.B., Paris, FRANCE

Lots of ignorance on display.

The French in Normandy and elsewhere have a long and honourable tradition of frequently caring for graves etc of Allied dead with many families doing it all on their own out of respect and thanks.

This now is " 'elf & safety" at work, EU rules today.

Stan(expat), USA, USA

If I was an American soldier who fought in Normandy, I might have something to say about this. But, I'm not. To me, these are just trees. We can all be grateful that the American soldiers, along with the Brits, and the Russians, stopped Hitlers influence on the civilized world.

Brimp, Philadelphia, USA

The French should never forget the US servicemen who fought and died on French soil --------- and I mean NEVER!

thomas warner, M.D., madison, USA

These trees should have been preserved.

Anyone who has traveled to Normandy, however, realizes that most of the people in Normandy are publicly grateful to America for its heroic efforts. Sixty-four years after D-Day locals still plant flowers on American graves.

Anthony Spinelli, New York, USA

That is a shame. But sixty years after the war we should quit Europe. My family brought my father home from that God forsaken France in 1955.
"Mr Robin chose the cheaper option" Perhaps someone should help besides just this one man. But quit Europe. We have paid too dear a price already.

PJ, Lordsburg, New Mexico,

"John Ambers, Anchorage, USA
......bureaucratic snafu NEVER blame Bush for letting 1000s die after Hurricane Katrina, ..."

Come down for the next hurricane and see how well you can run the show.

Jim, Corinth, MS, USA

1000s did not die in the most powerful storm to hit America in 150 years! We have a system of local, state and federal governments. Local and State governments failed miserably. President Bush neither caused the storm nor failed to respond to the disaster. GET OVER IT!

RJI, Monterey, USA

It should have been protected long ago. It is sad many were lost, but at least they are trying to save the remaining. I bet there are plenty of Frenchmen who are sick about this. My father was a WWll vet and he would be sad but I do not think there was malicios intent . Remember we are still allies

Linda , Texas, USA

This story might never have broken out of the local pages of French papers had the story not had “traction”. Thanks in part to the Times and now Matt Drudge, the usual and predictable histrionics are coming to the forefront in the comment section.

Miquelon, St Pierre et Miquelon, FRANCE

@ John Ambers

Americans of past generations used to be big on personal responsibility. Why are people surprised that a big hurricane hit the Gulf Coast and since when is it the government's responsibility to get them out of there. Don't want the risk? Don't live in New Orleans!

DCM, washington, dc, usa

I love hearing from those who say "without the French, there would be no USA." To say there would be no USA without France is ridiculous. Militarily, the French provided little assistance before Yorktown. Bunker Hill, Saratoga, Ticonderoga, Trenton, Princeton - all without the French.

Fred, Alexandria, VA, USA

An unfortunate lost of memory - yes, but trees do grow old and die and often become unsafe. These trees are anecdotal but the glorification through popular culture of the D-Day G.I. is so strong that anything relating to their existence seems to qualify as relics of quasi-religious importance.

Miquelon, St Pierre et Miquelon, FRANCE

I see the American jingoheads are out in force. Just remember, my American friends, that you would still be singing God Save the Queen were it not for the critical assistance of the French during the American Revolution. If you don't already know this fact, then you need to read a real history book.

Oomingmak, Honolulu, USA

The Muslims have already taken over France. They just haven't figured it out yet.

The US will have to bail the French out again within 20 years.

Bob, Warwick, USA

Truthfully, most of the French have a certain disdain for the Americans and their way of life (quite possibly an inferiority complex) but this is not to say they do not deserve better treatment than what they have received here. As many have stated, they were there for us during the revolution...

Scott, Oil City, PA

If you have ever visited the beautifully maintained allied war cemeteries in France ,you would no doubt appreciate the true sentiments of the French people.
<br/>
<br/>Trees whimsically carved up by bored american soldiers hardly rates sacred treatment.
<br/>
<br/>Get over it.

gc hein, Hainesville, USA

# 1 the fed gov in u.s failed to see a cat 4 coming #2 they set on there hands while major u.s city was under 9 ft of water #3 they can ship entier armies to mideast but cant ship food and water to la,alb,miss, # 4 there rebuilding the city for rich republican casino owners !

joe daugherty, louisa, U.S.A

Cutting down a few trees is up to the French. The USA fought for France in WW I and liberated France from the NAZIs in WW II. My uncles and my father helped make that happen from 1942 through 1945. That's good enough for me. Keep your stupid trees.

Patrick C., Irvine, USA

Bureaucrats are all the same. Give them any latitude and they'll find a way to run amok! From losing secret intelligence on al Qaeda on trains in GB, to trees in France, to giving terrorists US Constitutional rights. They'll kill us all and tell us they did it for us in our best interest! Feel OK?

Art Cornell, Ft Myers, USA

Dearest Richard of Cambridge, UK

Last time I checked, the Times was an English news paper, not an American one. As an "uninformed" American, I'd take a wild guess, and say that because of this, the article was written, not by a Yank, but by an... Englishman?

Just an observation by a U.S. idiot...

Jay, Seattle, U.S.A.

While I would say we may take a little longer to get there, we won't. We will be there to help them every time they need it, regardless of what they do for us. Maybe one day they will realize what we did.

Greg, , USA

Many of the French who came to America's aid in the Revolution were made about a foot shorter by Madame Guillotine during their Revolution.

KL, Seattle, US

I told my grand uncle about this story, he fought at D-Day "Omaha beach" and he was surprised they made it this long. The treasure of the battle of Normandie isn't a few grafittied trees but a Europe free from Nazism. i guess the owner Mr. Patrice Robin could have a fundraiser but 600 e is 2 much.

Logan, gallatin, usa

Enough with the "without the French there would be no U.S." argument.

Lafayette was a rogue Frenchman in his country. The first war after U.S. independence was with France, France aided Mexico against the U.S., fired on U.S. ships in WW2 and gave Saddam a nuclear reactor.

What help to the U.S.?

Michael, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA

I have to agree with Charlie of Stuart, Florida. I've done my share of French bashing but after living there for a couple of years I realize the average Frenchman is not that different from we Americans. They are being crushed by the weight of a Socialist gov't, elect Obama and you'll see.

Steve, Virginia Beach,

Chuck from Arlington - I think it said the owner did not want to do it but was forced to. It sounds to me like a local zoning officer or other such official is some kind of fascist nut. So they got them kind on the other side of the drink too. Doesn't surprise me.

Brad, Superior, USA

Regardless of the fate of the trees, the French are indebted to the United States for all eternity, well, at least until they are overrun by another corrupt regime. I do not hate the French, but I am saddened by their disdain for Americans after so many Americans died to free them from the Nazis.

Jeff, Sacramento / CA, USA

The uniform, uninformed viewpoints of our US cousins always shock me. If you'd actually got yourselves passports and been to the War sites in France and Belgium you would have seen the honouring of the fallen. This is just an opportunity for you to express the views imbued into you by your media

Richard Hughes, Cambridge, UK

To all those anti-French posters: "Lighten up, Francis." Get over yourselves.

Aaron, New York, USA

My late father fought valiantly in a tank to free France from the Germans - men with him froze to death. The French people should be ashamed of themselves that these trees were cut down for paper. They should have protected these trees forever. May God have mercy on your souls.

ILona English, New Jersey, USA

I am shocked that some liberal didn't stand up and stop the killing of the trees.....and just for the trees only. Not the soldiers.

travis, High Point, USA

To Mr. Ambers,

If something happened in your neck of the woods, who do you look to for help? What about the city? The state? THEN you look to the feds. Katrina was a mess and not even the administrations of New Orleans or Louisiana were prepared for it.

Mr. Zelenz, New York, USA

French. Enough said right there. They had some of these same people from that area on C-Span once during the 50th anniversary and were they appreciative at all for their liberation? Not a bit. Infact one complained that the invasion tore up his farm buildings and killed his cows. You are welcome.

Mark, Raleigh, USA

"NEVER blame Bush for letting 1000s die after Hurricane Katrina"

Mr. Ambers, the responsibility for the Katrina disaster falls largely on the gross incompetence of Mayor Nagin and Governor Blanco - both Democrats. And he did indeed do something: spent $100 billion, most of which was wasted.

marsouin, Washington, DC

Who is the most arrogant? The French for chopping down the trees, or Americans for thinking they won the war all on their own?

France has hundreds of monuments to the British, Canadian, Oz, NZ and US troops who fought in both World Wars. Only the Americans waited two years to get started....

Bryan, Auckland,

The article ought to mention that the toilet paper will be made out these trees.

Quentin, london, uk

Why does it matter what the French do or remember? We know our history. We know what has been accomplished. America has never been a nation that dwells on its past. Pay homage where you can, remember the fallen but always move forward,

joe, new york, america

The terrorist attack on 9/11 was a direct consequence of Bill Clinton's neglect. The fact that in almost 7 years we did not have another terrorist attack is solely due to President Bush's activities. The Katrina disaster is solely due to the Louisiana Democrat governor who refused to call FEMA.

Marc Jeric, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Hey Ambers!! Where did "Those Thousands Die" after Katrina that You are "Spouting Off" about, I would like too know?
You are just like the rest of those "Big Mouth" Liberals, ie (Geraldo Rivera) when He yelled during katrina "THERE ARE PEOPLE BEING RAPED"&"MURDERED" in theDome-both neverhappened.

Gary Galligan-Retired NYPD, Brigantine Beach, USA

My Uncle's unit was 2nd wave Ohama. Long story short-several years ago, he ended up at his old unit grave site. He fell apart, just like SPR. Once he got himself back together, several Frenchmen and women came up to him and said Thanks-We remember too. We do this as well. Look at our Civil War Sites

Jonathan A Cohen, Scarsdale, USA

Monuments...grafitti...gratitude...indifference..., comparisons can all be made for and against. No one is to blame here. I don't for a moment doubt the french appreciation for american sacrifices. America is not forgotten, France is not forgotten nor is any nation. The tributes are many if you look

Lee, Richmond, VA, USA

It is very simple...NEVER, EVER, come to their aid again.....PERIOD!!!

Richard, Cape Coral,

The trees are a remwmbrance of the brave AMERICANS, BRITISH, CANADIANS, FREE FRENCH, POLES who gave their lives in the 'liberation of FRANCE'. HOW QUICKLY 'EUROS' FORGET???!!! WHEN VLAD'S NEW RUSSIA OR THE MUSLIMS TAKE OVER - WILL AMERICA ONCE AGAIN COME TO YOUR RESCUE??? We shall see.

Zyskandar A Jaimot, ORLANDO, Fl, usa

Johnathan in Indianapolis.

Just curious, but how many times have the French liberated the Unites States or the United Kingdom from occupation by another nation? Aside from some assistance during the Revolution, the French have sacrificed little for the benefit of either the US or the UK.

David, Sacramento, United States

These same Bush-lovers who attack France for a local bureaucratic snafu NEVER blame Bush for letting 1000s die after Hurricane Katrina, or for letting 1000s die in the World Trade Center attacks when HE COULD HAVE DONE SOMETHING. HE COULD HAVE TRIED. Yes, he is incompetent, BUT HE COULD HAVE TRIED.

John Ambers, Anchorage, USA

It's nice to know that the French have the same respect for history as the Taliban, who destroyed centuries-old Buddhist statues. I would be ashamed to be the person signing the order to cut down those trees.

John-David Filing, Akron, USA

What about all the trees that the army of Rochambeau carved on during their march from Rhode Island to Yorktown ? Even the Rochambeau Bridge in DC is now called the 14th St. bridge. France and the French must move on.

Art Barber, Charleston, USA

If not for the brave soldiers of the United States, France would be speaking German now. Forget not who saved your future France! Cutting down the trees does not erase the deeds. Viva la U.S.A ...

Mike Needham, Gilbert, Arizona, U.S.A.

I'm not one to defend France but the responses seem out of proportion. The French do often lack gratitude, but those trees won't stand forever. If people want to protect them, buy a few and preserve them.
Europe sufers under too much historical preservation. America is getting the same way.

Ralph, Alexandria, VA, U.S.A.

As Americans, do we really want our D-Day soldiers to be remembered by the grafitti they left on trees in France? I certainly don't want to encourage anybody to deface a tree. There are more fitting memorials.

Mike, Irvine, USA

Nice to see you Americans perpetuating the stereotype of yokels.

My Grandfather also fought at D-Day. You don't have the monopoly on it.

All this French-bashing is very tedious. You seem to easily forget the sterling assistance they gave you in the past.

Do try to keep up!

Mat, Sydney,

I will not buy french anything, no visits, no nothing. Father is an 88-year old WW 2 vet.

David, Blacksburg Virginia, USA

Fort Ticonderoga ( Fort Carillon) was held by General Montcalm during the Seven Years War. In 1758 3600 French defeated 16,000 British and colonial troops, a cross was placed at these trenches. It stands today in honor of those men.....enough said.

Jason Downey, Hawthorne,NJ, USA

If I'm reading this right, it's just one old guy who doesn't want to spend the money to prune. It appears that just about everybody else mentioned is outraged. I haven't been much of a fan of the French but recently have changed my mind .(a bit)

Chuck, Arlington, USA

Well, for crying out loud, we all know that this is somehow the fault of Bush and Big Oil.

Dave, Cary, NC, USA

Chopping down the historical trees of Normandy is heartbreaking. We need the names and address of the officials who are responsible so we can can "thank" them in the name of our American military who saved their bacon.

pjd, San Juan Capistrano, USA

It is difficult to be disappointed because American expectations of French character is so low.

Ben, Philadelphia,

Before today, how many who have posted here even knew about these trees? Be honest. It is a sad display from our friends across the pond "Since 9/11, my hatred of Europe has grown exponentially." For shame.

Without the French, there would of never have been a USA.

Gwyllm, Swansea, Wales

It is sad that these trees were lost. I had never heard of them and I am heartened that those that remain will be saved
It's sadder still that many of the posters here have forgotten that without France as an ally during the American Revolution there probably would not have been a United States.

Nino, Boston, USA

We owe everything to the French. If not for them, we would still be under Britans rule.
I was a French hater, until I spent a month in France.
They are more like us than any other European country.
We got half of the USA from them for pennies.

Charlie, stuart florida,

My father faught in D-Day and the Bulge. The horror of what he lived through changed him forever.

What is so appalling about this act is that Americans suffered so much -- over 400,000 dead in the war -- to aid France and Europe. And yet this just spits on that memory.

alex , Clearwater,

Jerry:
"Have they forgotten what those brave young lads did for them?"

They don't wish to remember because it reminds them of their own failings. A very sad story but one that comes as no surprise.

Lin, London, UK

We don't need their wine or their foie gras...I say Marie Antioinette had it right..."Let them it cake!" and defend themselves in the future....oh wait, Osama Bin Laden won't let them drink wine...I forgot it is against his religion.

Tom, Green Bay,

Johnathan, Indianapolis:

I don't think anyone is blaming the owner of the land. The officials should have been aware of the significance of these trees and found a way to have them preserved.

Lin, London, UK

These comments are a bit overboard...it's not like they went and dug up the American cemetery or blew up the numerous memorials around the area...these are trees, trees with heavy limbs growing over a road. At some point, the trees were going to die. I'm not sure this was done with evil intent.

Dean, Charleston SC, USA

Hey Michel in London...As an isolated incident you may be right...but add up all the American bashing by the French and frankly...the generalizations are justified....

Tom, Green Bay,

If the story had broken earlier, I'm sure that the money to prune the trees would have been raised in mere seconds. Alas, if I face the choice between 900 vs 200 euros, the trees would have fell (of course this assumes that there were more than a handful of trees.) Death is inevitable. Lighten up.

Jon, Minthill, USA

Johnathan, Indianapolis , USA, the reason there are no monuments to the French in the UK is because our soldiers died in their country to bring them freedom, not the other way round.

Rob, Singapore,

Anti-France sentiment here is mindless. One said,"the Allies should have let Germany keep France. France would have been a better friend to the U.S. today." In 2003 France tried to SAVE Americans from attacking Iraq for no gain to anybody. Bush killed 5,200 Americans there because he didn't listen

John Ambers, Anchorage, USA

The day grows near the French will again be over run by a new enemy. For their gratitude to the US, I say sorry we are busy this time. Stand on your own two feet.

Mogo, Otto, North Carolina

Before you condemn an entire nation please note that there is one Frechman in the story that is a very vocal opponent of the move.

Doug, Virginia Beach, USA

They are concerned with the cost of a few hundred euros and forget the cost of all who sacrificed lives. We should have let the Germans have Fance!

Bobby, Texas, USA

Could you please refrain from making such stupid generalisations and remarks about what you think is "typical French behaviour"? This is a very sad accident, which can be attributed to blind bureaucracy, but is unfair and false to say that the French do not care about American sacrifices during WW2

Michel, London, UK

Maybe next time, if there is a next time, the U.S.A. will simply let the French fight their own batttles.

Simon, Dallas, U.S.A.,

Typical comments by the usual Francophobes, without consideration whatsoever that the trees in question are on PRIVATE PROPERTY! The owner was had few options given the costs involved. There are monuments to the US and UK troops everywhere. How many to the French in the US-UK?? 2 or less? Sad...

Johnathan, Indianapolis , USA

In hindsight, the Allies should have let Germany keep France.
It would have saved untold thousands of lives at the time, would have been run far more efficiently over the past six plus decades, and been a better friend to democracy, and the U.S., today.
Kevin from Pittsburgh was right on the money.

Bill, Lynn, Ma., U.S.A.

This is typical of the french, they always try to forget when they got their rears kicked. They forget what they did (more to the point didn't do) but try to remind everyone else of what the US has done (I think they do that to distract the world from their failings

cory, grafton, usa

Can't we chop down the goddamn statue of liberty. I don't want to see it in the waters of America any more.

BD Sparhawk, Monterey, USA

This is a real thumbnail sketch of how the French treat the sacrifices Americans and others have made on their behalf--and a very good reminder of why nobody cares what the French think about any damn thing.

Adam Goldstein, Washington, D.C. , USA

My grandfather fought in WWII. While I am not upset with Mr. Navarro on a personal level, or the French as a whole, I am saddened that a government official didn't try to find a way to preserve those trees. We in America have many monuments and battlefield here preserved from wars that occurred far much longer ago than WWII.

Michael Conerly, Pikeville, USA

Typical of the French. Why is anyone surprised...?

James Rocco, Los Angeles, USA

Typical. Franch has poorly in past wars (Go to Google; type "French Military Victories"; hit the "I'm Feeling Lucky" button) & this is typical. In the coming war with the Islamo-Fascists, acts like this is why the French should be allowed to be overrun & loose their national identity forever.

Zaki, Kabul, Afghanistan

They care about nothing because they believe in nothing.

Kevin, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Should we be surprised? I'm willing to venture a guess that there are monuments, artifacts, and markers of significance to the French, on American soil, that we will protect in perpetuity.

Typical. The French are lucky they still speak French and not German!

David, Los Angeles, USA

Thank you to the French who still care about history; it is the better part of you that this matters to- even as time slips away, and Americans have no real rights of indignation over this -thank you that this small slice of odd nostalgia from what seems nobler times for the US still matters.

chris, PHX , USA

As an american sailor who served my country as did my Father before me and My Son after me, I will try as had as I can to keep my grandson from ever entering my Countrys Military to protect and serve. Either it be at home or abroad our service is very soon forgotten. Call a protester for help!

Royce Bryan, Lindenhurst, New York

Since 9/11, my hatred of europe has grown exponentially. This is just one more finger in the collective American eye.

Matt, Chicago, USA

What a fitting, frustrating event -- French bureaucracy destroys a simple but poignant tribute created by boys who liberated their country. Have they forgotten what those brave young lads did for them? Madness! Sheer madness.

Jerry, Rural Ohio, USA