June 6, 1944 D-Day, the greatest seaborne invasion ever attempted began. I can add nothing to the story of
D-Day as it has been covered in every aspect for the last six decades. What I can say is that the invasion of
France and Europe was the beginning of the end of Nazi tyranny and murder that had been raging since 1939.
The forces of the USA and England who died on the beaches gave their lives to save millions and secure
freedom and peace for even more millions. Those who died could not have known the profound consequences
of the fight they were in or the outcome of the battle. For the free world the benefit of their sacrifice has been
evident since the fall of Nazi Germany and the reconstruction of Europe. The photo below is an aerial photo of
the beach called Utah where US troops came ashore.

Order of the Day: June 6, 1944

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 eyes 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 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.

General Dwight D. Eisenhower

© 2006 Michael W. Pocock
MaritimeQuest.com

General Dwight D. Eisenhower talking with men of the 101st Airborne "Screaming Eagles" on D-Day.

 

Utah Beach, Normandy, France.