75th anniversary of D-Day...
- Thread starter crimsonaudio
- Start date
- Status
A lot of your posts pique my curiosity. I didn’t know much about the P-38 so went looking for information.
In Europe the P-38J had issues with engine failure. It was thought at the time that the problem was Champion spark plugs failing but more likely the problem was lower grade fuel quality in Britain. This is why the P-38was used less than in ETO than in the Pacific.
I did not realize that about the maneuverability to the left but it makes perfect sense. It was a great plane.
June 10, 1944: It's now Saturday, and the construction of the Arromanches and Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer artificial harbors begin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mulberry_harbour). The Bazenville airfield close to Bayeux and that of Cardonville in the South of Grandcamp and Maisy becomes operational.
American troops continue their offensive in the northwest towards Cherbourg and southwest of Utah Beach in direction of Carentan, which represents a major objective for the Ally, being the crossroads linking the Calvados and Cotentin regions. The 506th regiment of the 101st Airborne ( is on the way towards Carentan, just like the 327th Glider Regiment which captures the village of Brevands in the northwest of Carentan. South of Omaha Beach, the troops of the 2nd American Infantry Division capture the localities of Trévières and Rubercy.
The town of Oradour-sur-Glane in central France is destroyed, with nearly all of its 652 inhabitants killed by troops of the SS Division Das Reich; the dead include about 200 women and children burned to death in the church.
By the evening of June 10 the Allies have lost nearly 15,000 men: killed, wounded, missing, or POWs.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields and coastal installations with 589 bombers and flies over 1,600 fighter sorties in ground support missions, offensive sorties, escort missions, and defensive patrols over Normandy. US 9th Air Force attacks targets in Normandy with 500 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 432 aircraft to attack transportation lines overnight. RAF Lancaster and Halifax bombers attack four airfields in France. At Leval, where German fighter-bombers are operating in attacks on the invasion beaches, the runway is cratered in several places, interrupting sorties for 48 hours.
In Italy, British 8th Army attacks toward Terni while US 5th Army continues pushing north from Tarquinia and Viterbo. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack multiple targets in support of Allied ground offensive and US 15th Air Force attacks Porto Marghera, Trieste, Ancona, Ferrara, and other targets with 550 bombers.
Pictured: A platoon of troops of the US Army moving along a farm house as they prepared to eliminate a German sniper up ahead, near Vierville-sur-Mer, France, June 10, 1944; An American paratrooper holds Nazi prisoners at the point of his bayonet, during the American advance into Normandy, in France, on June 10, 1944.; Oradour-sur-Glane, France - This small French village bore the brunt of Nazi brutality on June 10, 1944, when 642 people were either shot or burnt alive.; American A-20 Havoc bombers attacking railways behind German lines in Domfront, Orne, France
American troops continue their offensive in the northwest towards Cherbourg and southwest of Utah Beach in direction of Carentan, which represents a major objective for the Ally, being the crossroads linking the Calvados and Cotentin regions. The 506th regiment of the 101st Airborne ( is on the way towards Carentan, just like the 327th Glider Regiment which captures the village of Brevands in the northwest of Carentan. South of Omaha Beach, the troops of the 2nd American Infantry Division capture the localities of Trévières and Rubercy.
The town of Oradour-sur-Glane in central France is destroyed, with nearly all of its 652 inhabitants killed by troops of the SS Division Das Reich; the dead include about 200 women and children burned to death in the church.
By the evening of June 10 the Allies have lost nearly 15,000 men: killed, wounded, missing, or POWs.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields and coastal installations with 589 bombers and flies over 1,600 fighter sorties in ground support missions, offensive sorties, escort missions, and defensive patrols over Normandy. US 9th Air Force attacks targets in Normandy with 500 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 432 aircraft to attack transportation lines overnight. RAF Lancaster and Halifax bombers attack four airfields in France. At Leval, where German fighter-bombers are operating in attacks on the invasion beaches, the runway is cratered in several places, interrupting sorties for 48 hours.
In Italy, British 8th Army attacks toward Terni while US 5th Army continues pushing north from Tarquinia and Viterbo. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack multiple targets in support of Allied ground offensive and US 15th Air Force attacks Porto Marghera, Trieste, Ancona, Ferrara, and other targets with 550 bombers.
Pictured: A platoon of troops of the US Army moving along a farm house as they prepared to eliminate a German sniper up ahead, near Vierville-sur-Mer, France, June 10, 1944; An American paratrooper holds Nazi prisoners at the point of his bayonet, during the American advance into Normandy, in France, on June 10, 1944.; Oradour-sur-Glane, France - This small French village bore the brunt of Nazi brutality on June 10, 1944, when 642 people were either shot or burnt alive.; American A-20 Havoc bombers attacking railways behind German lines in Domfront, Orne, France
The atrocities of the Germans echo even today. My daughter and SIL, a German, operate a restaurant in the Savoie Alps. Their nationalities haven't affected their business. He speaks perfect French and looks more French or even Italian than German. He's a Francophile who lost his MR aunt and uncle to Nazi purification. However, my daughter has had a long battle to get her "green card" (Carte de Sejour). Their immigration lawyer has said that it's purely discrimination because of their nationalities and has threatened suit. Below is an excerpt from warfarehistorynetwork.com. You can understand the feelings of the Savoyards against the Germans...
My first knowledge of the P-38 was reading as a kid about Richard Bong being credited with 40 kills in the Pacific Theater flying a P-38. Later on it was the P-38 flight out of Guadalcanal that shot down and killed Admiral Yamamoto over Bougainville. One of the incredible feats of navigation of the war. I have always been fascinated with the Lightening and found it interesting that Charles Lindbergh worked with the P-38 pilots in the Pacific to lean their engines and significantly increase their effective range. Some years ago I had an opportunity to attend several of the War Bird Fly Ins at Oshkosh, WI and among the War Birds were a couple of P-38s. Seeing the plane flying combat acrobatics was incredible and the rate of climb was off the charts. It is one of the greatest aircraft designs in history.
Actually, compression was a problem area with them. They were known sometimes to buckle and nose down in a dive. No plane is perfect...
Ignore my compression remark, after a little research that problem was minimal. They were indeed "Zero Killers," since they could perch up above the altitude the Zeroes could attain and dive down on them, selecting the time and setting of the battle. Here is a long and exhaustive read on why the P-38 disappointed in Europe:
Historynet
June 11, 1944: The American forces that landed at Utah and Omaha move towards the crossroads city of Carentan. The city is defended by Major Von Heydte and his parachutists who hold and defend the city. The 506th regiment of the 101st Airborne approaches Carentan coming from the North and circumvents the city to the West - they must seize the city in order to allow the tanks of the 29th American Infantry Division to cross it without being worried about snipers.
The British attack from Tilly-sur-Seulles to Villers-Bocage on the Caen-Vire road. They are practically stopped by the first German Tiger tanks arriving in Normandy: the S.S. Panzerbataillon 101. The German counter-attacks are generally ineffective, however, because of the Allied air superiority.
The Canadians of the 6th Armored Regiment are stopped by the German tanks South-west of the Mesnil-Patry village. The soldiers of the 51 Highlanders, on the sides of the 6th Airborne Division, defend their positions from the day before the German counter-attacks. The front seems to be stabilized here.
North-West of Caen, the 6th Battalion of the Green Howards liberates the village of Ducy-Sainte-Marguerite. South of here, three other villages are still in the hands of the German Panzer Lehr forces: Chouain in the South-west, Brouay and Audrieu in the South-east. The 7th Battalion of the Green Howards tries to bore in the South-west but does not manage to cross the line of fire set up by the Panzer Lehr (who gathered the day before). The Panzers inflict very heavy losses on the British who are hole up near the hill 103.
The British and Canadian troops progress South of Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer towards the village of Cairon, in the valley of the Mue. The men of the 46 Royal Navy Commando liberate the city after furious combat against the fanaticized German soldiers of the 12nd SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend. In the wake of the battle they liberate the villages of Lasson, Rots and Rosel.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields and transportation lines with 800 bombers. US 9th Air Force attacks targets in Normandy with 129 bombers. US 8th and 9th Air Forces conduct ground support missions, offensive sorties, escort missions, and defensive patrols over Normandy with hundreds of fighters. RAF Bomber Command sends 329 aircraft to attack transportation lines overnight.
In Italy, British 8th Army captures Cantalupo and attacks around Bagnoregio. Pushing north, US 5th Army captures Montefiascone and Valentano. US 12th Air Force is limited to fighter sorties due to poor weather conditions.
Pictured: British officers inspecting a PzKpfw IV tank destroyed by the UK Durham Light Infantry, Normandy, France, June 11, 1944; Camouflaged German Tiger I heavy tank, Villers-Bocage, France, Jun 1944; Two disabled M4 Sherman tanks and a litter Jeep near the heavily damaged Église Saint-Ouen in Rots, France (near Caen), Jun 11, 1944; Troops of A Company, 6th Durham Light Infantry Regiment, British 50th Division in Grandcamp-Maisy, France, June 11, 1944; note Sten gun
The British attack from Tilly-sur-Seulles to Villers-Bocage on the Caen-Vire road. They are practically stopped by the first German Tiger tanks arriving in Normandy: the S.S. Panzerbataillon 101. The German counter-attacks are generally ineffective, however, because of the Allied air superiority.
The Canadians of the 6th Armored Regiment are stopped by the German tanks South-west of the Mesnil-Patry village. The soldiers of the 51 Highlanders, on the sides of the 6th Airborne Division, defend their positions from the day before the German counter-attacks. The front seems to be stabilized here.
North-West of Caen, the 6th Battalion of the Green Howards liberates the village of Ducy-Sainte-Marguerite. South of here, three other villages are still in the hands of the German Panzer Lehr forces: Chouain in the South-west, Brouay and Audrieu in the South-east. The 7th Battalion of the Green Howards tries to bore in the South-west but does not manage to cross the line of fire set up by the Panzer Lehr (who gathered the day before). The Panzers inflict very heavy losses on the British who are hole up near the hill 103.
The British and Canadian troops progress South of Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer towards the village of Cairon, in the valley of the Mue. The men of the 46 Royal Navy Commando liberate the city after furious combat against the fanaticized German soldiers of the 12nd SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend. In the wake of the battle they liberate the villages of Lasson, Rots and Rosel.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields and transportation lines with 800 bombers. US 9th Air Force attacks targets in Normandy with 129 bombers. US 8th and 9th Air Forces conduct ground support missions, offensive sorties, escort missions, and defensive patrols over Normandy with hundreds of fighters. RAF Bomber Command sends 329 aircraft to attack transportation lines overnight.
In Italy, British 8th Army captures Cantalupo and attacks around Bagnoregio. Pushing north, US 5th Army captures Montefiascone and Valentano. US 12th Air Force is limited to fighter sorties due to poor weather conditions.
Pictured: British officers inspecting a PzKpfw IV tank destroyed by the UK Durham Light Infantry, Normandy, France, June 11, 1944; Camouflaged German Tiger I heavy tank, Villers-Bocage, France, Jun 1944; Two disabled M4 Sherman tanks and a litter Jeep near the heavily damaged Église Saint-Ouen in Rots, France (near Caen), Jun 11, 1944; Troops of A Company, 6th Durham Light Infantry Regiment, British 50th Division in Grandcamp-Maisy, France, June 11, 1944; note Sten gun
The Story of D-Day in 5 Maps
https://www.vox.com/2014/6/6/5786508/d-day-in-five-maps
I like a map to help me see where these different towns are in Normandy. I thought others might like this page. Map 4 is of particular interest. It is a gif that shows day by day advancement of the allies. Map 5 is similar but for the whole war.
https://www.vox.com/2014/6/6/5786508/d-day-in-five-maps
I like a map to help me see where these different towns are in Normandy. I thought others might like this page. Map 4 is of particular interest. It is a gif that shows day by day advancement of the allies. Map 5 is similar but for the whole war.
June 12, 1944: After a day of difficult street fighting, the 502nd and 506th regiments of the 101st Airborne manage to control a part of the town of Carentan by early evening. The American forces that landed in Utah and Omaha are now joined, in fact the five beachheads are now joined together and represent a 50 mile long zone from Sainte-Mère-Eglise in the West and to Ouistreham in the East, varying from 5-20 miles of depth from the shoreline. The American 1st Infantry Division liberates the village of Caumont, 18 miles South of Omaha, gaining the benefit of high ground. The British continue battling their way to Villers-Bocage on the Caen-Vire road. The majority of the German armored divisions equipped with Tiger tanks are gathered north and northwest of Caen, and the British suffer heavy losses due to this particularly well-equipped tank.
As of midnight, June 12, 18 Ally divisions (8 American divisions, 10 British and Canadian divisions) are present in Normandy, representing a total of 326,547 soldiers, 54,186 vehicles and 104,428 tons of materials.
Alfred Rosenberg, German Reich Minister for the Eastern Occupied Territories, is ordered to start Heuaktion, which calls for the kidnapping of 40,000 Polish children between the age of 10 and 14; they are to be transported to Germany as slave laborers.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields and transportation lines with 1,278 bombers. US 9th Air Force attacks targets with 509 bombers. US 8th and 9th Air Forces conduct ground support missions, offensive sorties, escort missions, and defensive patrols over Normandy with hundreds of fighters. RAF Bomber Command sends 671 aircraft to attack transportation lines overnight.
Over Germany, RAF Bomber Command sends 303 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen and 27 aircraft to attack Cologne overnight.
In Italy, British 8th Army continues to battle northward while US 5th Army remains engaged with German delaying positions around Orbetello. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack multiple targets in support of Allied ground offensive.
Pictured: An amphibious Jeep being towed ashore at Normandy, France, Jun 12, 1944. Note that censors have deleted markings on the Jeep's front bumper and an object at the right edge; Wrecks of German Tiger I and Panzer IV tanks, Villers-Bocage, France, Jun 1944; 101st Airborne troops enter Carentan on June 12, 1944. They are accompanied by attached medical personnel and vehicles (their own 1/4-ton trucks and captured enemy vehicles); Map of the progress of Allied forces as of June 12, 1944
As of midnight, June 12, 18 Ally divisions (8 American divisions, 10 British and Canadian divisions) are present in Normandy, representing a total of 326,547 soldiers, 54,186 vehicles and 104,428 tons of materials.
Alfred Rosenberg, German Reich Minister for the Eastern Occupied Territories, is ordered to start Heuaktion, which calls for the kidnapping of 40,000 Polish children between the age of 10 and 14; they are to be transported to Germany as slave laborers.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields and transportation lines with 1,278 bombers. US 9th Air Force attacks targets with 509 bombers. US 8th and 9th Air Forces conduct ground support missions, offensive sorties, escort missions, and defensive patrols over Normandy with hundreds of fighters. RAF Bomber Command sends 671 aircraft to attack transportation lines overnight.
Over Germany, RAF Bomber Command sends 303 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen and 27 aircraft to attack Cologne overnight.
In Italy, British 8th Army continues to battle northward while US 5th Army remains engaged with German delaying positions around Orbetello. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack multiple targets in support of Allied ground offensive.
Pictured: An amphibious Jeep being towed ashore at Normandy, France, Jun 12, 1944. Note that censors have deleted markings on the Jeep's front bumper and an object at the right edge; Wrecks of German Tiger I and Panzer IV tanks, Villers-Bocage, France, Jun 1944; 101st Airborne troops enter Carentan on June 12, 1944. They are accompanied by attached medical personnel and vehicles (their own 1/4-ton trucks and captured enemy vehicles); Map of the progress of Allied forces as of June 12, 1944
This is a great paper! Among other things, it's a reminder of what a series of blunders wars are. (I started to use a common obscenity but checked myself.)
June 13, 1944: It’s Tuesday - today is D+7, marking 1 week (7 days) since the D-Day Invasion at Normandy and the beginning of the liberation of Europe.
The 502nd and 506th regiments of the 101st Airborne Division manage to liberate the totality of Carentan. To the southwest, the American 175th Infantry Division must control the high ground above the road connecting Bayeux to Saint-Lô - its units are pinned there by mortars and shootings of heavy machine guns which slow down their progression. The battleship Texas shells the area with its 16-inch batteries without hitting the task force. The American 90th Infantry Division liberates the locality of Pont-L’Abbe, while at the edge of the American and the British sectors, the soldiers of the US 1st Infantry Division liberate the village of Caumont where the Americans fight the 2nd German SS Panzer Division.
On the British front, the battlefield sees a short lull. Montgomery uses this to reinforce his positions and he slows down the progression of his troops to the North of Caen (which is still not under Allied control). The "Desert Rats" (7th English Armored Division) are attacked close to Villers-Bocage by the heavy tanks led by Michael Wittman. The British losses are so high that they abandon Villers-Bocage and retreat to the north.
The Germans, benefiting from this victory, counter-attack in direction of Tilly-on-Seulles and of Lingevres. But the British of the 49th and 50th infantry divisions fight back hard and the German armored tanks of the Panzer Lehr Division are scattered. The counter-attack is transformed into an organized retreat, but Caen is still not captured and it seems that many days of intense fightings will be necessary for its liberation.
Overnight, the Germans launch the first V-1 Flying Bomb (rocket) attack on England - only four of the ten bombs actually hit their targets.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields with 128 bombers in first mission and 208 bombers in second mission. US 8th Air Force fighters conduct ground attacks and escort missions. US 9th Air Force attacks targets with 397 bombers while fighters conduct ground attacks, escort missions, and offensive patrols.
Over Germany, US 15th Air Force attacks Innsbruck after being forced to abort missions over Munich.
In Italy, British 8th Army captures Bagnoregio and Narni, and continues pushing toward Orvieto and Terni. US 5th Army makes little northward progress. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack multiple targets in support of Allied ground offensive and attack shipping at Livorno. US 15th Air Force attacks Porto Marghera.
Pictured: Jeep bringing casualties to a LST for evacuation, Utah Beach, Normandy, France, June 13, 1944; note line of German POWs; British 4.5 inch gun and crew of 211 Battery, 64th Medium Regiment, Royal Artillery in action near Tilly-sur-Seulles, France, June 13, 1944; Wrecked German Tiger I heavy tank, Viller-Bocage, France; The first aerial delivery of beer during the Battle of Normandy was conducted on June 13, 1944 through two 45 gallons tanks carried under the wings of the Spitfire Mk IXb belonging to 412 Squadron (126 Wing) on the occasion of their arrival at the B-4 airfield, Bény-sur-Mer, Calvados. A total of 270 gallons of beer were transported that day.
The 502nd and 506th regiments of the 101st Airborne Division manage to liberate the totality of Carentan. To the southwest, the American 175th Infantry Division must control the high ground above the road connecting Bayeux to Saint-Lô - its units are pinned there by mortars and shootings of heavy machine guns which slow down their progression. The battleship Texas shells the area with its 16-inch batteries without hitting the task force. The American 90th Infantry Division liberates the locality of Pont-L’Abbe, while at the edge of the American and the British sectors, the soldiers of the US 1st Infantry Division liberate the village of Caumont where the Americans fight the 2nd German SS Panzer Division.
On the British front, the battlefield sees a short lull. Montgomery uses this to reinforce his positions and he slows down the progression of his troops to the North of Caen (which is still not under Allied control). The "Desert Rats" (7th English Armored Division) are attacked close to Villers-Bocage by the heavy tanks led by Michael Wittman. The British losses are so high that they abandon Villers-Bocage and retreat to the north.
The Germans, benefiting from this victory, counter-attack in direction of Tilly-on-Seulles and of Lingevres. But the British of the 49th and 50th infantry divisions fight back hard and the German armored tanks of the Panzer Lehr Division are scattered. The counter-attack is transformed into an organized retreat, but Caen is still not captured and it seems that many days of intense fightings will be necessary for its liberation.
Overnight, the Germans launch the first V-1 Flying Bomb (rocket) attack on England - only four of the ten bombs actually hit their targets.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields with 128 bombers in first mission and 208 bombers in second mission. US 8th Air Force fighters conduct ground attacks and escort missions. US 9th Air Force attacks targets with 397 bombers while fighters conduct ground attacks, escort missions, and offensive patrols.
Over Germany, US 15th Air Force attacks Innsbruck after being forced to abort missions over Munich.
In Italy, British 8th Army captures Bagnoregio and Narni, and continues pushing toward Orvieto and Terni. US 5th Army makes little northward progress. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack multiple targets in support of Allied ground offensive and attack shipping at Livorno. US 15th Air Force attacks Porto Marghera.
Pictured: Jeep bringing casualties to a LST for evacuation, Utah Beach, Normandy, France, June 13, 1944; note line of German POWs; British 4.5 inch gun and crew of 211 Battery, 64th Medium Regiment, Royal Artillery in action near Tilly-sur-Seulles, France, June 13, 1944; Wrecked German Tiger I heavy tank, Viller-Bocage, France; The first aerial delivery of beer during the Battle of Normandy was conducted on June 13, 1944 through two 45 gallons tanks carried under the wings of the Spitfire Mk IXb belonging to 412 Squadron (126 Wing) on the occasion of their arrival at the B-4 airfield, Bény-sur-Mer, Calvados. A total of 270 gallons of beer were transported that day.
June 14, 1944: the American forces begin to move towards the north of Utah Beach. The 9th Infantry Division, near the 4th Infantry Division, is ordered to liberate the town of Quineville - the German Regional Headquarters. They take it rather quickly, slowed only by German artillery. Cherbourg, which needed to be under the Allied control by by today according to the plans made back in May, is still held by the Germans. The American 9th Infantry Division progresses towards Valognes, despite heavy losses. The men of the 82nd Airborne Division attack in direction of the village of Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte.
Northeast of Bayeux, on the beach of Courseulles (Juno Beach), General de Gaulle, chief of the Free French Army, lands after crossing the English Channel aboard destroyer "La Combattante", a ship of the Free French Navy. He meets General Montgomery at his Headquarters at the castle of Creuilly, then goes to Bayeux, which was liberated on June 7, where an immense crowd acclaims him and sings the "Marseillaise". He goes then to the towns of Isigny-sur-Mer and Grandcamp at the end of the afternoon, pressed by the Allies to come back as fast as possible. The new government of the French Republic, called the Provisional Government, is installed in Bayeux.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields, transportation lines, V-weapons sites, and other targets with 983 bombers. US 9th Air Force attacks targets with 500 bombers. Overnight, RAF Bomber Command sends 337 aircraft to attack German ground forces near Caen and 330 aircraft to attack transportation lines.
During the day, RAF Bomber Command conducts a raid on Le Havre with 325 Lancaster bombers - the German naval forces on the English Channel suffer considerable loss (35 vessels).
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Emmerich refinery with 61 bombers and overnight RAF Bomber Command sends 35 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen.
In Italy, elements of British 8th Army capture Orvieto, Terni and Todi. Forces of the US 5th Army also advance, capturing Magliano. The US 4th Corps moves up the Mediterranean coast. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack multiple targets in support of Allied ground offensive.
Pictured: American troops pass through the streets of Sainte-Mere-Eglise, in Normandy, keeping a sharp lookout for German snipers on June 14, 1944; British 6-pdr anti-tank gun deployed outside Lingevres, June 14, 1944; Aftermath of Battle of Villers-Bocage, June 14, 1944; General de Gaulle's return
Northeast of Bayeux, on the beach of Courseulles (Juno Beach), General de Gaulle, chief of the Free French Army, lands after crossing the English Channel aboard destroyer "La Combattante", a ship of the Free French Navy. He meets General Montgomery at his Headquarters at the castle of Creuilly, then goes to Bayeux, which was liberated on June 7, where an immense crowd acclaims him and sings the "Marseillaise". He goes then to the towns of Isigny-sur-Mer and Grandcamp at the end of the afternoon, pressed by the Allies to come back as fast as possible. The new government of the French Republic, called the Provisional Government, is installed in Bayeux.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields, transportation lines, V-weapons sites, and other targets with 983 bombers. US 9th Air Force attacks targets with 500 bombers. Overnight, RAF Bomber Command sends 337 aircraft to attack German ground forces near Caen and 330 aircraft to attack transportation lines.
During the day, RAF Bomber Command conducts a raid on Le Havre with 325 Lancaster bombers - the German naval forces on the English Channel suffer considerable loss (35 vessels).
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Emmerich refinery with 61 bombers and overnight RAF Bomber Command sends 35 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen.
In Italy, elements of British 8th Army capture Orvieto, Terni and Todi. Forces of the US 5th Army also advance, capturing Magliano. The US 4th Corps moves up the Mediterranean coast. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack multiple targets in support of Allied ground offensive.
Pictured: American troops pass through the streets of Sainte-Mere-Eglise, in Normandy, keeping a sharp lookout for German snipers on June 14, 1944; British 6-pdr anti-tank gun deployed outside Lingevres, June 14, 1944; Aftermath of Battle of Villers-Bocage, June 14, 1944; General de Gaulle's return
June 15, 1944: the rapid progression by US forces in the days following the D-Day landing has now slowed in the face of solid German resistance. The principal objective of the Americans in the Cotentin peninsula is to capture the town of Cherbourg and its deep water harbor; even with the artificial harbors of Arromanches and Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer now being operational, Allied High Command feels they will be insufficient to supply the campaign, so it is absolutely necessary to capture a deep water harbor which will allow to accommodate huge transport ships of supplies, therefore Cherbourg is the objective number one in Cotentin. But the Germans understand the strategic importance of this city and its harbor and the reinforcements of their defense of Cherbourg start. Before attacking Cherbourg in the north, the Americans decide to join the other end of Cotentin peninsula in order to cut the German reinforcements between the North and the South of Cotentin. They need sufficient soldiers to travel in the east all while maintaining the pressure towards north. In Utah, the fourth American Army corps estimates that manpower is sufficient: the 7th Corps of the General Collins can divide Cotentin in two. US VIII Corps (under Major General Troy Middleton) becomes operational with the 90th Infantry Division and both US Airborne Divisions under its command, and is tasked with protecting the rear of the imminent attack to capture Cherbourg.
The British try to stop the German retreats by systematically bombarding the areas located on and behind the front line (which seems to remain more or less fixed). A line of cities and villages are attacked by the allied bombers, such as Evrecy and Noyers-Bocage. Benefitting from the effect of devastation of the bombardments, the British armored units attack in the Villers-Bocage direction, but they are once again pushed back by the German Tiger tanks.
In the skies above France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields, transportation lines, V-weapons sites, and other targets with 1,000 bombers. US 9th Air Force attacks various strategic targets with 550 bombers and conducts ground attacks, escort missions, and offensive patrols with more than 1,400 fighters. RAF Bomber Command sends 227 aircraft to attack German supply depots overnight and 224 aircraft to attack transportation lines overnight.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Hannover and other targets with 200 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 31 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen overnight.
In Italy, British 8th Army captures Ficulle and Allerona and US 5th Army reaches Grosseto. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack La Spezia, Florence, and other targets in support of Allied ground offensive.
The Germans begin launching a barrage of 244 V-1 flying bombs aimed at London.
Pictured: Troops from 101st Airborne Division take a break in Carentan, June 15, 1944; French children surround a US Army soldier as he lets them rummage through his rucksack for sweets following the Battle of Carentan and the liberation of the village from German forces, June 15, 1944.; Crew of B-26C Marauder “Carefree Carolyn” of the 552nd Bomb Squadron in front of their airplane after making a wheels-up landing, RAF Great Dunmow, Essex, England, June 15 1944. This was the aircraft’s 100th mission; The artificial harbor of Arromanches
The British try to stop the German retreats by systematically bombarding the areas located on and behind the front line (which seems to remain more or less fixed). A line of cities and villages are attacked by the allied bombers, such as Evrecy and Noyers-Bocage. Benefitting from the effect of devastation of the bombardments, the British armored units attack in the Villers-Bocage direction, but they are once again pushed back by the German Tiger tanks.
In the skies above France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields, transportation lines, V-weapons sites, and other targets with 1,000 bombers. US 9th Air Force attacks various strategic targets with 550 bombers and conducts ground attacks, escort missions, and offensive patrols with more than 1,400 fighters. RAF Bomber Command sends 227 aircraft to attack German supply depots overnight and 224 aircraft to attack transportation lines overnight.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Hannover and other targets with 200 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 31 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen overnight.
In Italy, British 8th Army captures Ficulle and Allerona and US 5th Army reaches Grosseto. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack La Spezia, Florence, and other targets in support of Allied ground offensive.
The Germans begin launching a barrage of 244 V-1 flying bombs aimed at London.
Pictured: Troops from 101st Airborne Division take a break in Carentan, June 15, 1944; French children surround a US Army soldier as he lets them rummage through his rucksack for sweets following the Battle of Carentan and the liberation of the village from German forces, June 15, 1944.; Crew of B-26C Marauder “Carefree Carolyn” of the 552nd Bomb Squadron in front of their airplane after making a wheels-up landing, RAF Great Dunmow, Essex, England, June 15 1944. This was the aircraft’s 100th mission; The artificial harbor of Arromanches
June 16, 1944: The American progression continues in the Cotentin peninsula. General Collins' VII Corps pushes to the east while the 82nd Airborne Division advances to the north. The 9th Infantry Division, attached to the 7th Corps, liberates Orglandes. Other divisions moving to the west of Cotentin (47th and 60th Infantry divisions) continue their progress. US 1st Army is engaged around St Lo.
Overnight (between June 15-16) the largest number of V-1 rockets of the entire Battle of Normandy reach London: 244 - the Germans call it the "Day of Vengeance". The King of England, George VI, comes to visit the British troops in Normandy. The British try to continue the progression in the north and the northwest of Caen, under the cover of the aviation. Sword beach is still being hit by German artillery fire.
With a firm foothold in Normandy, the Allies can now start moving supplies in at a dramatic pace - these supplies are needed to continue the push to liberate France and ultimately defeat Germany.
Over Germany, RAF Bomber Command sends 321 aircraft to attack Sterkrade and 26 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight. RAF Bomber Command utilizes airborne Mandrel jamming system for the first time.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields, transportation lines, V-weapons sites, and other targets with 313 bombers. US 9th Air Force bombers are grounded by poor weather, but 500 fighters attack transportation lines, operating a small advance echelon from an airfield in Normandy. RAF Bomber Command sends 405 aircraft to attack V-weapons sites overnight.
In Italy, British 8th Army forces continue to advance. The 10th Corps captures Spoleto and penetrates to Spoligno. Forces of the US 5th Army take Grosseto. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack multiple targets in support of Allied ground offensive.
Pictured: Military vehicles move ashore from Mulberry Artificial Harbor A, across a pontoon bridge, to Omaha Beach, Normandy, France, June 16, 1944 (D+10). Visible are M3 Halftracks, an M8 Greyhound, and AFKWX 2½-ton Trucks.; Soldiers of the US 82nd Airborne Division. Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte, June 16, 1944; Ruins in Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte. In this devastated neighborhood, one house was somehow left intact, June 16, 1944; Sgt. R.A. Garbutt of the 19th R.C.A. Field Regiment showing shrapnel holes made in the radiator of his vehicle by a German 88mm gun, June, 16 1944
Overnight (between June 15-16) the largest number of V-1 rockets of the entire Battle of Normandy reach London: 244 - the Germans call it the "Day of Vengeance". The King of England, George VI, comes to visit the British troops in Normandy. The British try to continue the progression in the north and the northwest of Caen, under the cover of the aviation. Sword beach is still being hit by German artillery fire.
With a firm foothold in Normandy, the Allies can now start moving supplies in at a dramatic pace - these supplies are needed to continue the push to liberate France and ultimately defeat Germany.
Over Germany, RAF Bomber Command sends 321 aircraft to attack Sterkrade and 26 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight. RAF Bomber Command utilizes airborne Mandrel jamming system for the first time.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields, transportation lines, V-weapons sites, and other targets with 313 bombers. US 9th Air Force bombers are grounded by poor weather, but 500 fighters attack transportation lines, operating a small advance echelon from an airfield in Normandy. RAF Bomber Command sends 405 aircraft to attack V-weapons sites overnight.
In Italy, British 8th Army forces continue to advance. The 10th Corps captures Spoleto and penetrates to Spoligno. Forces of the US 5th Army take Grosseto. US 12th Air Force aircraft attack multiple targets in support of Allied ground offensive.
Pictured: Military vehicles move ashore from Mulberry Artificial Harbor A, across a pontoon bridge, to Omaha Beach, Normandy, France, June 16, 1944 (D+10). Visible are M3 Halftracks, an M8 Greyhound, and AFKWX 2½-ton Trucks.; Soldiers of the US 82nd Airborne Division. Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte, June 16, 1944; Ruins in Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte. In this devastated neighborhood, one house was somehow left intact, June 16, 1944; Sgt. R.A. Garbutt of the 19th R.C.A. Field Regiment showing shrapnel holes made in the radiator of his vehicle by a German 88mm gun, June, 16 1944
June 17, 1944: US operations in the Cotentin peninsula aimed at cutting the German lines are continuing and the many villages and towns that are on the road to the US VII Corps are liberated, such as Magneville or Néhou, reached on the evening by elements of the US 60th Infantry Division. The 47th U.S. Infantry Division frees the city of Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte. The US 1st Army cuts off the Contentin Peninsula - the US 9th Division (part of US VII Corps) reaches the west coast to the north and south of Barneville. German divisions isolated to the north are stopped as they attempt to break out.
For the British, the going is far more difficult: as the Green Howards reach the town of Longraye, defenders of the Panzer-Lehr do not yield an inch - the British are violently repelled by the German tanks and artillery. The German defense line north of Caen stands firm.
Hitler meets with Rundstedt, Commander in Chief (west), and Rommel, commanding Army Group B. Both Field Marshals seek a withdrawal to more defensible positions inland. Hitler refuses to allow a retreat from Normandy - he believes that the V1 bombing of Britain will force it out of the war.
In the skies over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields with 231 bombers, then follows up with a second attack with 273 bombers. US 8th Air Force fighters fly 1,027 escort and ground attack sorties. US 9th Air Force attacks targets with 265 bombers and conducts escort and ground attack missions with more than 1,300 fighters. RAF Bomber Command sends 317 aircraft to attack transportation lines and 114 aircraft to attack V-weapons site near Abbeville overnight.
Eighteen Lancaster bombers from British No. 617 Squadron attacked German V-1 launch sites on the coast of the English Channel.
USAAF First Lieutenant William "Swede" Anderson of the 356th Fighter Squadron, 354th Fighter Group, returning to base after a ground-strafing sortie over France in his P-51B "Swede's Steed II" spots a V1 Flying bomb and promptly shoots it down. In doing so he became the first USAAF pilot to record a V1 kill. After landing the 23-year-old Anderson excitedly asked "How many 'Doodlebugs' make an ace?"
In Italy, British 8th Army advances beyond the Chieti River along the Adriatic coast, pushing toward Perugia. The Polish 2nd Corps replaces the British 10th Corps in the line. Meanwhile, the French 9th Colonial (Senegalese) Division (General de Lattre) lands on Elba Island. US 5th Army continues to pursue the retreating Germans northward. US 12th Air Force is restricted to a few fighter missions by poor weather conditions.
Pictured: Tribute to a killed American soldier erected by French civilians, Carentan, France, June 17, 1944; Sherman tanks of UK 30th Corps passing through Bayeaux, France, June 17, 1944; Men of the 5/7th Gordon Highlanders occupy a defensive position in a hedge, June 17, 1944.; A French woman rummaging through the ruins of her home in Orglandes, June 17, 1944
For the British, the going is far more difficult: as the Green Howards reach the town of Longraye, defenders of the Panzer-Lehr do not yield an inch - the British are violently repelled by the German tanks and artillery. The German defense line north of Caen stands firm.
Hitler meets with Rundstedt, Commander in Chief (west), and Rommel, commanding Army Group B. Both Field Marshals seek a withdrawal to more defensible positions inland. Hitler refuses to allow a retreat from Normandy - he believes that the V1 bombing of Britain will force it out of the war.
In the skies over France, US 8th Air Force attacks airfields with 231 bombers, then follows up with a second attack with 273 bombers. US 8th Air Force fighters fly 1,027 escort and ground attack sorties. US 9th Air Force attacks targets with 265 bombers and conducts escort and ground attack missions with more than 1,300 fighters. RAF Bomber Command sends 317 aircraft to attack transportation lines and 114 aircraft to attack V-weapons site near Abbeville overnight.
Eighteen Lancaster bombers from British No. 617 Squadron attacked German V-1 launch sites on the coast of the English Channel.
USAAF First Lieutenant William "Swede" Anderson of the 356th Fighter Squadron, 354th Fighter Group, returning to base after a ground-strafing sortie over France in his P-51B "Swede's Steed II" spots a V1 Flying bomb and promptly shoots it down. In doing so he became the first USAAF pilot to record a V1 kill. After landing the 23-year-old Anderson excitedly asked "How many 'Doodlebugs' make an ace?"
In Italy, British 8th Army advances beyond the Chieti River along the Adriatic coast, pushing toward Perugia. The Polish 2nd Corps replaces the British 10th Corps in the line. Meanwhile, the French 9th Colonial (Senegalese) Division (General de Lattre) lands on Elba Island. US 5th Army continues to pursue the retreating Germans northward. US 12th Air Force is restricted to a few fighter missions by poor weather conditions.
Pictured: Tribute to a killed American soldier erected by French civilians, Carentan, France, June 17, 1944; Sherman tanks of UK 30th Corps passing through Bayeaux, France, June 17, 1944; Men of the 5/7th Gordon Highlanders occupy a defensive position in a hedge, June 17, 1944.; A French woman rummaging through the ruins of her home in Orglandes, June 17, 1944
June 18, 1944: The prime objective of the US 7th Corps is achieved: the Cotentin peninsula is cut in two along a line which connects Utah Beach and Barneville. The nearly 40,000 German forces which defend the surroundings of Cherbourg, the new objective of the VII Corps, are separated from reinforcements and supplies. The Americans maintain the pressure and keep bombarding the German lines of defense which move back hour after hour. The engagements are violent and German morale is low as elements of US 1st Army isolate Cherbourg.
The American attacks towards the north below a line connecting Montebourg to the East, Valognes in the center and Les-Pieux in the West. The Allied navy gathers off the coast of Cherbourg to support the ground forces through their progression and to prepare the bombardments of the fortifications protecting the Germans in the city and its deep water harbor. In the east of Cotentin, the 4th American Infantry division attacks in the towards Montebourg.
On the British front, north and northwest of Caen, the engagements between mechanized infantry divisions are fierce and it appears the liberation of the capital of the Calvados will take much longer than expected. This is disastrous for the Allied aviators who do not have enough territory to install runways. On the other hand, German armored divisions are pulled towards the east of Normandy, thus relieving pressure on the Americans on the western front. A new battle begins in the areas around Tilly.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks V-weapons site at Watten with 58 bombers. US 9th Air Force attacks V-weapons sites and transportation lines with 120 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 10 aircraft to attack V-weapons site near St Omer overnight.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Hamburg, Hannover, and targets of opportunity with 1,239 bombers.
A V-1 rocket strikes the Guards Chapel across from Buckingham Palace in London during worship services, killing 119. Winston Churchill impresses on Dwight Eisenhower that there must be no change of plans as a result of the V-1 attacks; London and the southeast will endure the bombardment as long as necessary.
In Italy, elements of British 8th Army capture Assisi and continue to advance toward Perugia. Elements of the French Expeditionary Corps (part of US 5th Army) enter Radicofani in the west on their way to Florence.
Pictured: Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. in his Jeep 'Rough Rider' near the front lines in Normandy; Reinforcements for initial allied invaders of Normandy, long lines of troops and supply trucks begin their march on June 18, 1944; 105 mm Self Propelled Gun M-7 'Priest' of the 14th Armored Field Battalion/2nd Armored Division passes through Rue Holgate, Carentan. June 18, 1944; Map of VII Corps’ progress in the Cotentin Peninsula
The American attacks towards the north below a line connecting Montebourg to the East, Valognes in the center and Les-Pieux in the West. The Allied navy gathers off the coast of Cherbourg to support the ground forces through their progression and to prepare the bombardments of the fortifications protecting the Germans in the city and its deep water harbor. In the east of Cotentin, the 4th American Infantry division attacks in the towards Montebourg.
On the British front, north and northwest of Caen, the engagements between mechanized infantry divisions are fierce and it appears the liberation of the capital of the Calvados will take much longer than expected. This is disastrous for the Allied aviators who do not have enough territory to install runways. On the other hand, German armored divisions are pulled towards the east of Normandy, thus relieving pressure on the Americans on the western front. A new battle begins in the areas around Tilly.
Over France, US 8th Air Force attacks V-weapons site at Watten with 58 bombers. US 9th Air Force attacks V-weapons sites and transportation lines with 120 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 10 aircraft to attack V-weapons site near St Omer overnight.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Hamburg, Hannover, and targets of opportunity with 1,239 bombers.
A V-1 rocket strikes the Guards Chapel across from Buckingham Palace in London during worship services, killing 119. Winston Churchill impresses on Dwight Eisenhower that there must be no change of plans as a result of the V-1 attacks; London and the southeast will endure the bombardment as long as necessary.
In Italy, elements of British 8th Army capture Assisi and continue to advance toward Perugia. Elements of the French Expeditionary Corps (part of US 5th Army) enter Radicofani in the west on their way to Florence.
Pictured: Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. in his Jeep 'Rough Rider' near the front lines in Normandy; Reinforcements for initial allied invaders of Normandy, long lines of troops and supply trucks begin their march on June 18, 1944; 105 mm Self Propelled Gun M-7 'Priest' of the 14th Armored Field Battalion/2nd Armored Division passes through Rue Holgate, Carentan. June 18, 1944; Map of VII Corps’ progress in the Cotentin Peninsula
The scale of what was happening 75 years ago is impossible to imagine, but sometimes I get a small glimmer of understanding and it's mind-boggling. Like this: "Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Hamburg, Hannover, and targets of opportunity with 1,239 bombers."
1,239 bombers - just imagine the preparation, the amount of fuel, munitions, etc it takes to pull that off. And that's one cog in the machine the Allies had humming along against the Nazis. Just incredible!
1,239 bombers - just imagine the preparation, the amount of fuel, munitions, etc it takes to pull that off. And that's one cog in the machine the Allies had humming along against the Nazis. Just incredible!
June 19, 1944: The US progress in the north Cotentin continues as the 4th American Infantry Division liberates the town of Montebourg. The battle around the city of Valognes, which straddles the road Cherbourg, is still in the hands of the German forces, who resist violently.
The weather is bad in Normandy which limits air support, but more importantly the artificial harbors of Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer Arromanches are damaged by a storm in the Channel which has increased in intensity over the last three days - the waves destroy the assembled pieces of the harbor. With confusion rampant on both artificial harbors, vessels also run aground, some sink and floating bridges break their moorings. The Allied forces face a major problem: they are heavily dependent on food, equipment, ammunition and fuel supplies coming from the harbors. The front supply is heavily delayed and Operation Epsom (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Epsom) - planned by general Montgomery, which aims at finally breaking the front northwest of Caen - is delayed. However, battles continue in the vicinity of Tilly, which is liberated during the day, and British troops appear to progress again after several days without much progress.
Over France, RAF Bomber Command sends 21 aircraft to attack V-weapons site near St Omer in a daylight raid. US 8th Air Force attacks airfields with 259 bombers escorted by 217 fighters. US 8th Air Force also attacks V-weapons sites with 201 bombers in the morning and 270 bombers in the afternoon. The 368th Fighter Group of US 9th Air Force becomes the first USAAF unit to transfer to a base in France.
In Italy, The British 8th Army reaches the south and east side of Trasimeno Lake. This advance brings the army near the German-held Albert Line. US 5th Army continues to press northward against German delaying. US 12th Air Force is mostly grounded by poor weather but fighters fly patrol and support missions to Elba.
Pictured: An American soldier gives a drink of water to a wounded German prisoner lying on a stretcher somewhere in the Normandy battle area, June 19, 1944; The wreckage of a universal carrier blown up by a landmine in Tilly-sur-Seulles, June 19, 1944; US soldiers are seen as they take cover in a roadside ditch in the small Normandy town of St. Sauveur Le Vicomte, near Cherbourg, on June 19, 1944; Waves batter the "Mulberry" artificial harbor off "Omaha" Beach, during the great storm of June 19-22, 1944. Photographed from alongside the old British battleship Centurion, which had been sunk as a breakwater and anti-aircraft emplacement.
The weather is bad in Normandy which limits air support, but more importantly the artificial harbors of Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer Arromanches are damaged by a storm in the Channel which has increased in intensity over the last three days - the waves destroy the assembled pieces of the harbor. With confusion rampant on both artificial harbors, vessels also run aground, some sink and floating bridges break their moorings. The Allied forces face a major problem: they are heavily dependent on food, equipment, ammunition and fuel supplies coming from the harbors. The front supply is heavily delayed and Operation Epsom (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Epsom) - planned by general Montgomery, which aims at finally breaking the front northwest of Caen - is delayed. However, battles continue in the vicinity of Tilly, which is liberated during the day, and British troops appear to progress again after several days without much progress.
Over France, RAF Bomber Command sends 21 aircraft to attack V-weapons site near St Omer in a daylight raid. US 8th Air Force attacks airfields with 259 bombers escorted by 217 fighters. US 8th Air Force also attacks V-weapons sites with 201 bombers in the morning and 270 bombers in the afternoon. The 368th Fighter Group of US 9th Air Force becomes the first USAAF unit to transfer to a base in France.
In Italy, The British 8th Army reaches the south and east side of Trasimeno Lake. This advance brings the army near the German-held Albert Line. US 5th Army continues to press northward against German delaying. US 12th Air Force is mostly grounded by poor weather but fighters fly patrol and support missions to Elba.
Pictured: An American soldier gives a drink of water to a wounded German prisoner lying on a stretcher somewhere in the Normandy battle area, June 19, 1944; The wreckage of a universal carrier blown up by a landmine in Tilly-sur-Seulles, June 19, 1944; US soldiers are seen as they take cover in a roadside ditch in the small Normandy town of St. Sauveur Le Vicomte, near Cherbourg, on June 19, 1944; Waves batter the "Mulberry" artificial harbor off "Omaha" Beach, during the great storm of June 19-22, 1944. Photographed from alongside the old British battleship Centurion, which had been sunk as a breakwater and anti-aircraft emplacement.
327th Glider Infantry or 401st?
I served in C/2-327th (well after they trade in their gliders for choppers).
I think the glider regiment of the 101st consisted or 1-327th GIR, 2-327th GIR and 1-401st GIR. Since then they have reflagged the third battalion as 3-327th IR (and even for a few years post 911, as 3-506th PIR).
Last edited:
- Status
Latest threads
-
-
Game One of Alabama-Texas A&M Alabama Series Moved to Friday as Part of Doubleheader- Started by Diamond Tide
- Replies: 0
-
Bama Game Thread: Bama Gymnastics - NCAA Championship Semi-finals (ESPN2 | 4/18 @ 8pm CT)- Started by BamaNation
- Replies: 32
-
No. 1 Visits Tuscaloosa for Second Straight Week as Alabama Hosts Top-Ranked Texas A&M
- Started by Diamond Tide
- Replies: 0
-
-
I'm Declaring the Emperor has no clothes (NCAA rules implosion)
- Started by BamaNation
- Replies: 35