Operation Overlord

June 6, 1944 was 70 years ago but it is still remembered. Although their numbers are dwindling, there are men who participated in the D Day invasion of Normandy who are still alive today. In fact, one of them plans to parachute in, just as he did in 1944 but this time, he will be 93. 

(Jim Martin)

Operation Overlord was the name for the largest amphibious invasion that has taken place. After practicing in England earlier in the year, the Allied forces landed on the beach at Normandy. Prior to the landings, Allied paratroopers had jumped into France the night before, Naval ships had bombarded the beach and the Allied forces received air support. This was the role of the Tuskegee Airmen during the invasion.

(British Paratroopers)

(Tuskegee Airmen)

Despite the extra aid, the casualties on D Day were devastating because the Germans had fortified the beach. 12,000 casualties and at least 4,000 confirmed dead. The Allied troops had little cover from German gunfire on the beach. 

It was successful though. The victory at Normandy lead to the liberation of France and eventually, the end of the war. D Day is considered to be a major turning point in World War II.