On June 6, we remember D-Day. That day was the invasion of Normandy, France during World War II. Why was this such an important battle in World War II?
Before D-Day, German forces had invaded France. They were trying to take over all of Europe. Allies from Canada, the United States, France, and Great Britain wanted to force German troops back into Germany. They bombed German targets like railroads and bridges. This would slow down the German Army. The Allies planned a major attack.
The German Army knew that the Allies were planning to attack. But the Allies tricked them. The Germans thought the attack would be further north in France. Still, the attack was tricky. It needed to take place during a full moon and when the ocean waters were high. That meant that only a few days would work.
On June 6, 6000 ships came from the water to the beach. They brought troops, weapons, and tanks. Allied soldiers had to fight hard to win the battle. But a few weeks after D-Day, the German troops were leaving France. The Allies were on their way to winning the War.
What Do You Think? Why do you think that we remember D-Day? What was important about this attack? How would you describe the soldiers who took part in the operation?
Photo Credit: National Archives and Records Administration
