D-Day

Atlantic Wall

Fearing an allied assault, the Germans had build a defensive network of bunkers, minefields, and heavy guns, stretching along the coastline from Norway to Spain.

First Attempt at Capturing the Port

It was a large miscalculation, they simply did not take in consideration of the enemy’s strength in the land of Dieppe. → Taught them that if they want to get through Germany’s defenses in the Western Europe, they needed to get the preparation correct.

Intelligence and Cameras Technique

The Allies first used the Spitfire to take photos along the coastline. Then, they sent it to professionals whom scrutinized the defense lines in astonishing detail, and probing the Atlantic Wall for any weaknesses → which that Allies could exploit.

D-Day Goal

• Establish a foothold in Europe

• Ultimately defeat Nazi Germany by opening up a Western Front.

• Begin the release of France from German occupation.

Why is D-Day Delayed a Day?

It was postponed due to bad weather in the English Channel. Conditions such as high winds, rough seas, and poor visibility would have made the landing extremely dangerous and ineffective. → They would need to perform very well to make this well.

Why was the Landing Difficult and Dangerous?

• Strong German defenses: The Atlantic Wall included bunkers, barbed wire, landmines, machine guns, and artillery.

• Rough terrain: Beaches were open and exposed, with obstacles like wooden stakes, metal tripods, and underwater mines.

• Heavy enemy fire: Allied soldiers faced continuous gunfire as they disembarked from landing crafts.