In the spring of 1944, the Allies prepared for an operation that would determine the course of the modern world. The men tasked with carrying it out knew what awaited them: an entrenched enemy, relentless fire, and the very real chance they would not live to see the sun set. They went anyway.

The success of this campaign shaped the borders of Europe, secured the survival of free nations, and cemented the United States as the leading global power. It forced Nazi Germany into a war it could no longer win and prevented the Soviet Union from sweeping unchecked across the continent.

This battle was a turning point—not just in the Second World War, but in the history of the 20th century. Had it failed, the consequences would have been catastrophic. Instead, it brought about the collapse of Hitler’s regime and dictated who would rebuild Europe, who would govern its future, and how power would be distributed for generations.

Normandy. June 6, 1944.
Allied Forces: ~175,000 Soldiers.
Nazi Forces: ~80,000 Soldiers.

Additional Reading and Episode Research:

• Kemp, Anthony. D-Day and the Invasion of Normandy.
• Little, Brown. Omaha Beachhead.
• Keegan, John. Six Armies in Normandy.
• Marshal, S.L.A. Night Drop.

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