battle

D-Day Invasion

June 6, 1944

Normandy, France

Allied forces invaded Normandy, France in largest amphibious assault in history

world-war-iibattlenormandyeisenhower

Historical Significance

Opened Western Front and began liberation of Western Europe

Causes

1.Need to open second front in Europe
2.Free France from Nazi occupation
3.Relieve pressure on Soviet forces

Effects

1.Established Allied foothold in France
2.Led to liberation of Paris
3.Hastened end of war in Europe
4.Over 10,000 Allied casualties on first day

Key Figures

Dwight D. Eisenhower

Supreme Allied Commander

Planned and led D-Day invasion

Primary Sources

General Eisenhower's Order of the Day (1944)

Dwight D. Eisenhower ()

document

"Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen of the Allied Expeditionary Force! You are about to embark upon the Great Crusade, toward which we have striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you. The hope and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you. In company with our brave Allies and brothers-in-arms on other Fronts, you will bring about the destruction of the German war machine, the elimination of Nazi tyranny over the oppressed peoples of Europe, and security for ourselves in a free world."

Eisenhower's Unsent Message in Case of Failure (1944)

Dwight D. Eisenhower ()

document

"Our landings in the Cherbourg-Havre area have failed to gain a satisfactory foothold and I have withdrawn the troops. My decision to attack at this time and place was based upon the best information available. The troops, the air and the Navy did all that bravery and devotion to duty could do. If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt it is mine alone."

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