Beachhead Normandy

This is the history of the U.S. navy's vessel designated the landing craft. tank (LCT) operations with a detailed look at a specific ship, the LCT 614, which landed at Omaha Beach under heavy fire. The LCTs were more than mere transports. The little craft had permanently assigned crews and participated in nearly all forms of naval warfare.

World War II naval history has been discussed and examined from almost every possible angle. One story that has never been told in detail, however, is that of the U.S. Navy's vessel designated the landing craft, tank (LCT). Even though they are known for ferrying troops and supplies to the beaches of Normandy, LCTs were more than mere transports. In fact, the little craft had permanently assigned crews and participated in nearly all forms of naval warfare. Beachhead Normandy combines the history of LCT operations with a detailed look at a specific ship, the LCT 614, which landed at Omaha Beach under heavy fire. Tom Carter has gathered material from the U.S. Navy's archives, the National Archives, and personal stories from several members of the 614's crew, including the ship's skipper and second officer, to give readers a clear picture of the LCT's role in one of World War II's most pivotal moments. He also analyzes the role of LCTs in the Pacific theater, including the 614's participation in the occupation of China while supporting the marines' famed First Division. Drawing on both technical analyses and personal accounts by the actual participants, including the author's father, Beachhead Normandy is a rich and varied history of the key services these ships performed during and after World War II.

Expanded edition with a new chapter on the final battles of the Normandy campaign.

A traveler’s guide to the history of the D-Day landings and points of interest around Omaha Beach in Normandy, featuring planned walking tours. As the left most inland flank of the D-Day landings, Sword Beach was thought most likely to receive the first German counterattacks. The British troops selected for the assault had the tasks of securing the beach and advancing on the heavily defended medieval town of Caen. The troops also were determined to link up with British paratroopers and glider units who had landed the night before on special missions and were not equipped to withstand an armored counterattack alone. Backed up by an impressive array of modified armored vehicles, the veteran 3rd Division, spearheaded by No. 4 Army Commando and 41 Royal Marine Commando, stormed ashore and secured its objectives with moderate casualties. No. 4 Commando also reached the airborne troops before they could be overwhelmed by German armor. However, the British failed to secure the key town of Caen on schedule. This book guides the reader through the battle for the V Corps beachhead, the fiercest and bloodiest of the landings. Whether you’re interested in World War II history, have a relative who fought that day, or were inspired by Saving Private Ryan, this is the book for you.

Engaging history of a controversial World War II battle. Brilliantly researched and compellingly written by a top military historian.