Remembering D-Day

Code-named 'Operation Overlord,' the Allied invasion of Normandy was a massive logistical effort involving nearly 156,000 troops and more than 12,000 aircraft.

Wednesday, June 05, 2024 at 11:35 AM ET

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On D-Day, Douglas C-47 troop carrying plans of the 9th AF, towing gliders loaded with airborne infantry are on the way to the French coast to participate in the initial assault behind enemy lines. [Courtesy: National Archives and Records Administration]

Key Takeaways:

June 6 marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day (Operation Overlord), the massive Allied invasion of Normandy in 1944, which historians see as a pivotal event marking the beginning of the end of World War II.
The invasion was an unprecedented logistical and engineering feat, involving nearly 156,000 troops, thousands of ships, and an estimated 13,000 aircraft coordinated across multiple phases.
Aircraft, particularly C-47s, were crucial for carrying paratroopers and providing air cover, and were distinguished by temporary black and white "invasion stripes" painted at the last minute for quick identification as friendlies.

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June 6 marks the 80th anniversary of the Allied invasion of Normandy, France, in 1944. Code-named Operation Overlord, it was a massive logistical effort involving nearly 156,000 American, British, Canadian, free French, and Polish troops landing on five beaches along the coast of France.

The invasion required advances in engineering and logistical planning as well as coordination of thousands of troops, ships, and aircraft to make it work.

Meg Godlewski

Meg Godlewski has been an aviation journalist for more than 24 years and a CFI for more than 20 years. If she is not flying or teaching aviation, she is writing about it. Meg is a founding member of the Pilot Proficiency Center at EAA AirVenture and excels at the application of simulation technology to flatten the learning curve. Follow Meg on Twitter @2Lewski.