Normandy, France
The invasion of Normandy, started on D-Day on June 6, 1944, was the turning point of World War II. Eight allied armies banded together to launch a massive invasion against German forces. 850,000 soldiers, 148,000 vehicles, and 7,000 ships stormed the beach. 10,300 men lost their lives over two months. Germans were led to believe the assault would happen at another target and were not ready for the invasion.
This gave the Allies an opening to move through northern France, liberating Nazi-held territory. The Allies coordinated efforts with Soviet troops coming from the east. These forces entered Germany, preventing Hitler and Germany from building up troops to repel these forces. Germany surrendered in 1945 and Hitler was no more than a stain on history. Today there are multiple memorials along the 50 miles of Normandy waterfront, dedicated to the soldiers who helped defeat Hitler’s regime.
