63 Years Ago today

The greatest amphibious invasion ever to occur took place on the beaches of Normandy France. Earlier in the evening 18,000 American and British paratroopers jumped in behind the lines, and at 0630 local time, soldiers from US, France, England, Canada, and other nations stormed the beaches under intense fire from a well entrenched German army.

Ultimately the Allies were able to amass a beachhead of over 155,000 troops, and begin the invasion, and ultimate liberation of France and western Europe. Eleven months later the German forces capitulated and the war in Europe was over.

Lest we forget the men who died that day and subsequent days and months following the invasion. Their sacrifice will never ever be forgotten

Here is the order of the Day, from General Eisenhower:

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 eves of the world are upon you. The hopes 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. Your task will not be an easy one. Your enemy is well trained, well equipped and battle-hardened. He will fight savagely.But this is the year 1944! Much has happened since the Nazi triumphs of 1940-41. The United Nations have inflicted upon the Germans great defeats, in open battle, man-to-man. Our air offensive has seriously reduced their strength in the air and their capacity to wage war on the ground. Our Home Fronts have given us an overwhelming superiority in weapons and munitions of war, and placed at our disposal great reserves of trained fighting men. The tide has turned! The free men of the world are marching together to Victory! I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full Victory! Good Luck! And let us all beseech the blessing of Almighty God upon this great and noble undertaking.

Dwight D. Eisenhower

--gfo