Allied forces launch largest seaborne invasion in history

Tuesday, 6 June 1944 – Normandy, France.

Allied forces have launched the largest seaborne invasion in history, marking the beginning of Operation Overlord.

Codenamed Operation Neptune, the Normandy landings commenced in the early hours of Tuesday morning with a coordinated assault involving extensive aerial and naval bombardment, followed by the deployment of airborne troops and amphibious landings along the French coast.

Early Morning Assault

Shortly after midnight, approximately 24,000 American, British, and Canadian airborne troops descended behind enemy lines.

This aerial assault was designed to secure key positions and disrupt German defences ahead of the main landing force. The airborne troops faced fierce resistance but have reportedly secured several strategic points.

Amphibious Landings Begin

At dawn, the amphibious assault began, with Allied forces landing on a 50-mile stretch of the Normandy coast. Divided into five sectors—Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword—the landings were met with intense German fire from fortified positions overlooking the beaches.

Strong winds and currents pushed the landing craft off course, complicating the already perilous operation.

Fierce Resistance at Omaha

The landings at Omaha Beach have proven particularly brutal, with heavy casualties reported. The high cliffs and fortified German positions have made the advance slow and costly.

Despite these challenges, Allied troops continue to press forward, demonstrating extraordinary bravery under relentless enemy fire.

Progress in Other Sectors

In the Gold, Juno, and Sword sectors, Allied forces are engaged in fierce house-to-house combat to clear fortified towns. Specialised tanks, designed to deal with beach obstacles and fortifications, have played a crucial role in disabling key enemy gun emplacements.

Initial Objectives

The primary objectives for the first day included establishing secure beachheads and capturing key towns such as Carentan, Saint-Lô, and Bayeux. However, the Allies have yet to achieve these goals fully.

The link-up of beachheads is progressing slowly, with Juno and Gold being the only sectors connected as of this report. Full consolidation of all beachheads is anticipated in the coming days.

Strategic Importance

We understand that today’s invasion marks a pivotal moment in the Allied campaign to liberate France and Western Europe from Nazi occupation.

The planning for this operation began over a year ago, with extensive deception operations, such as Operation Bodyguard, successfully misleading German forces about the invasion’s timing and location.

A Day of Sacrifice and Valour

As the sun sets on this historic day, the cost of the invasion becomes evident. Allied casualties are estimated to be at least 10,000, with over 4,000 confirmed dead. German casualties range between 4,000 to 9,000.

The courage and sacrifice of these soldiers will be remembered as a turning point in the fight for freedom and the eventual defeat of tyranny in Europe.

Memorial Tribute

This report, written as if by the UK Defence Journal on the day of the landings, serves a dual purpose. First, it captures the immediacy and urgency of the historic events as they unfolded. Second, it stands as a tribute to the valour and sacrifice of the brave soldiers who stormed the beaches of Normandy. Their actions laid the groundwork for the liberation of France and the eventual victory in Europe.

As we commemorate their heroism, we acknowledge the heavy price paid for freedom. The legacy of D-Day will endure as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Allied forces in the face of overwhelming odds. May we never forget the sacrifices made on this day, and may their courage inspire future generations.