Chronological Order
May 1943: Allies make the final decision to invade Normandy. (Originally May 1, 1944 but then changed to June 4, 1944) June 1, 1944: Ships are loaded at Southern coast of England June 5, 1944: Convoys sail and reach Normandy. Aerial Attacks begin. Early June 6, 1944: Naval bombardment on beaches. During: Americans, then British, then Canadians land on the beaches. Noon: Canadians secure Juno Beach. Advance continues until nightfall. By August 1944, France was liberated. U.S. Army Divisions |
BeachesUtah Beach At first Utah beach was not a part of the D-Day plan, but in order to reach the outset of Cherbourg, allies needed to go through the flooded and rough terrain of the Utah beaches. Omaha Beach As a major link between the British and American beaches, Omaha beach gave many divisions a fight for their life. With difficult terrain that lead to jutting cliffs, and bluffs, Omaha beach was one of the most restricted and heavily defended beaches, which made the journey tough for many soldiers. Pillboxes were also set up so that German troops could shoot at incoming soldiers, while still remaining concealed from warships fire. Overall, Omaha beach was never expected to become a major drop off point for landing troops. After Omaha, American troops were led to St. Lo (a major road junction.) Gold Beach Landing on Gold Beach was the 50th Division of the British 2nd Army, their primary goal was to seize Arrolnanches, gain the road junction at Bayeux and make contact with American, and Canadian allies. The Division was able to capture the beach relatively easily because of the intense armor, the specially armored vehicles called "Funnies", and the "Flail" tanks, which cleared terrain, and detonated booby traps. Juno Beach The 3rd Canadian Division was tasked with landing on Juno beach. With average casualties, this Canadian division made the largest perforation of any land force. Originally they were just concerned with their role in the invasion, since most of them were involved with the planning staff. Sword Beach The Objective of this invasion was for the 3rd British Infantry Division to line up with the British airborne forces at Caen. Unfortunately, this was too big of a task to give to one division and Caen was not taken until late June. |