Today marks the 74th anniversary of D-Day. On Tuesday, June 6, 1944, occurred the largest seaborne operation in the history of the World. Code-named Operation Neptune, but more commonly referred to as D-Day, was the successful mission that began the liberation of northwestern Europe from Nazi control.
This attack included 24,000 troops consisting of the Americans, the British, and the Canadians. Landing on the beaches of Normandy occurred at about 06:30 in France. Despite extraordinary planning, this mission had its difficulties, but these brave souls were able to succeed, nevertheless, making this one of the most well-known, and important battles in history.
During the attack, heavy winds blew the landing crafts away from the planned landing position. The soldiers who landed, came under heavy fire from gun emplacements that overlooked the beach. The shore was also covered in mines and obstacles. Of the five sectors, the casualties at Omaha were the worst, due to its high cliffs. it was estimated that at least 10,000 Allied soldiers perished in the battle. While their lives were lost, their accomplishments will never be forgotten.
Although the Allied Forced did fail to achieve their goals on the first day of the operation, the tides would turn. All five beachheads were finally connected on June 12, 1944. The operation continued to gain a foothold for the incoming Allied forces over the coming months. This battle was a major turning point in World War II. The achievement and bravery of these soldiers will never by forgotten.
Let us take a moment to reflect on this 74th anniversary of D-Day, to remember all of those individuals who sacrificed so much to allow the Allied Forces to turn the tide of World War II in the European Theater.
To those brave individuals: Thank you. The world owes you.