The Allied code name for their attempt to breach the Atlantic Wall is "OVERLORD" - history's largest military operation with over one million invading troops.

Soldiers from the United Kingdom, the United States, France, Canada, Belgium and Poland and many other nations gathered in England early in 1943,

Most British and some Americans are combat veterans. Many American troops, however, will hear shots fired in anger for the first time

The Allied armies and navies trained and staged in England from 1943 onwards. France was a short trip by either boat or plane.

The Plan

Five hours before dawn on June 6, 1944, three airborne divisions will parachute behind the Atlantic Wall to attack German garrisons and seize key towns.

Then, at first light, six infantry divisions will attack the beaches before the Atlantic Wall. 

American troops must seize Utah and Omaha beaches, while a British force, including a Canadian division, will take Gold, Juno & Sword. 

Meanwhile, French resistance will harass the Germans farther inland.