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Friday, June 6, 2008

June 6, 1944

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 hope 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..."





0933 hrs : Communication no. 1 from the Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Forces is broadcast:

"Under the command of General Eisenhower, allied naval forces supported by strong air forces, began landing allied armies, this morning, on the northern coast of France."




1200 hrs : CHURCHILL speaks to the House of Commons: "I have to announce to the Chamber that the first series of mass landings on the European continent have begun; and most batteries along the coast have been taken. Everything is running according to plan."




Broadcast made to Western Europe by Gen Eisenhower: "People of Western Europe: A landing was made this morning on the coast of France by troops of the Allied Expeditionary Force. This landing is part of the concerted United Nations’ plan for the liberation of Europe, made in conjunction with our great Russian allies..."




Such simple words that identified the largest invasion force ever assembled in history. On the 64th anniversary of that day, we say thank you again.

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