West Central Reporter

On June 6, 1944, more than 150,000 Allied troops crossed the English Channel and landed on the beaches of German-occupied Normandy, France in what is now known as "D-Day." Codenamed "Operation Overlord," this operation was the largest amphibious assault in world history.

Allied forces coordinated for months to devise a plan to break through the Nazi entrenchment known as the Atlantic Wall. This line of defenses spanned across France and extended to Norway. To maintain secrecy, the Allies created a fake invasion plan titled "Operation Bodyguard" to mislead Nazi forces about their landing location. The United States and its allies aimed to land on five different positions along Normandy’s coast: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword.

Despite careful planning, Operation Overlord faced issues from the start. Originally scheduled for June 5, poor weather conditions delayed the assault until June 6. Even then, many vessels were pushed off course by turbulent waters. Troops that made it ashore were immediately pinned down by fortified German machine gunners and mortar teams who had seen through parts of Operation Bodyguard's deception.

Splashing through the waters of northwestern France, American and other Allied troops fought for control of this strategic battleground. More than 4,400 Allied troops lost their lives during this battle; among them were 2,500 Americans.

Thanks to well-coordinated strategy and support from naval and aerial units alongside collaborative efforts by nations including the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, Normandy's beachhead was eventually captured after intense fighting with German forces. The successful operation is widely considered a turning point in the European theater of World War II and marked the beginning of the end for the Third Reich.

Eight decades later, the skill and bravery demonstrated by the 73,000 U.S. troops who participated in Operation Overlord remain solemn examples of heroism. Their actions continue to inspire future generations.

As we reflect on our liberties today, we honor those who sacrificed their lives on Normandy's beaches 80 years ago. The Illinoisans who paid this ultimate price are commemorated at the WWII Illinois Veterans Memorial in Springfield.