D-Day: The Allied Invasion of Normandy

Prelude to Invasion

During World War II, the Allied forces planned an invasion of western Europe to liberate it from German occupation. Codenamed Operation Overlord, the invasion was scheduled for June 1944.

D-Day: June 6, 1944

On June 6, 1944, the Allies launched the invasion of Normandy, France, known as D-Day. The invasion involved over 150,000 Allied troops who landed on five beaches along the Normandy coastline.

Landing Beaches

The invasion was divided into five landing beaches: * Utah Beach: American troops * Omaha Beach: American troops * Gold Beach: British troops * Juno Beach: Canadian troops * Sword Beach: British troops

Initial Resistance

The German forces on the beaches put up fierce resistance, but the Allies managed to establish footholds and gradually push inland. Heavy fighting took place on all the beaches, with the highest casualties suffered at Omaha Beach.

Operation Overlord

D-Day marked the beginning of Operation Overlord, the larger Allied campaign to liberate Western Europe. The operation involved extensive air and naval support, and it succeeded in opening a second front against Nazi Germany.

Legacy of D-Day

D-Day remains a pivotal moment in World War II and in world history. The invasion was a testament to the unity and determination of the Allied forces, and it played a crucial role in the defeat of Nazi Germany. The beaches of Normandy and the surrounding towns and villages have become sites of pilgrimage for those who want to remember the sacrifices made on that fateful day.