D-day
Invasion from the sea
Janos Black
Location of the battle of D-day
Nations that was involved in D-day
Generals involved in D-Day
Goals of D-Day
From 1941 to 1944 America and its allies pursued the goal of defeating "Germany First." Their strategy rested on a key assumption, and that is there would have to be a massive invasion of Northwest Europe aimed at the heart of the Axis empire. This would reduce German pressure on the Soviet Union by creating a true "second front" in Europe. Germany would be trapped between the Soviets in the east and the Americans and British in the west.
By 1943 success on the battlefield and production in the factories made it possible to begin formal planning for this bold operation, the largest amphibious invasion in history. The target date was spring 1944.
Outcome of D-Day
Losses were far greater at Juno Beach, located adjacent to Gold. Juno was assaulted by the Canadian 3rd Division. Rough seas and strong tides hindered the Canadians invasion efforts. Nearly one-third of their landing craft was damaged or destroyed by mines and beach obstacles. The first wave of infantry suffered terrible losses. Casualties at Juno would total 1,200 by the end of the day. Still, by midmorning the Canadians were able to begin moving inland to link up with British forces from Gold.
The long lasting impact of D-Day
On December 19, 1944 the German troops advanced 50 miles into Allied lines creating the “bulge.” However on January 16th, 1945 Germany was defeated in the Battle of the Bulge. Germany retreated due to the Allied resistance, and shortage of supplies. In March of 1945 US troops crossed the Rhine, causing the German troops to retreat. One month later on April 30th, Adolph Hitler committed suicide. On May 7th, 1945 World War II officially ended without the need to implement the surprise invasion called Operation Overlord.
D-Day was a turning point during WWII. Had the Americans and their fellow allies opted to remain neutral and refuse to get involved Russia may have very well been overthrown by Germany and the world would be a much different place.