Eighty years ago today, the Allies launched the Normandy landings, the largest seaborne invasion in human history and perhaps the most decisive stroke in World War II, one that dealt a fatal blow to the Nazis and led to the ultimate destruction of the Axis powers.
At the time, nobody knew if the invasions would work. It was not foregone. The enemy was powerful, entrenched and well-supplied. Had the landings failed, the tide may very well have turned in Hitler's favor, potentially leading to a completely Nazified Europe and a world under the control of Japan and Germany.
Ahead of D-Day, Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the following missive to the 175,000-strong invasion force. His words are simple, brief, powerful, meaningful. They are a masterclass in American rhetoric, a stirring rally to the troops ahead of a monumental military undertaking.
Eisenhower's remarks are more moving and poignant than ever. Read them here:
Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen of the Allied Expeditionary Force!
You are about to embark upon the Great Crusade, toward which we have striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you. The hope and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you. In company with our brave Allies and brothers-in-arms on other Fronts, you will bring about the destruction of the German war machine, the elimination of Nazi tyranny over the oppressed peoples of Europe, and security for ourselves in a free world.
Your task will not be an easy one. Your enemy is well trained, well equipped and battle-hardened. He will fight savagely.
But this is the year 1944! Much has happened since the Nazi triumphs of 1940-41. The United Nations have inflicted upon the Germans great defeats, in open battle, man-to-man. Our air offensive has seriously reduced their strength in the air and their capacity to wage war on the ground. Our Home Fronts have given us an overwhelming superiority in weapons and munitions of war, and placed at our disposal great reserves of trained fighting men. The tide has turned! The free men of the world are marching together to Victory!
I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full Victory!
Good luck! And let us beseech the blessing of Almighty God upon this great and noble undertaking.
