Normandy Airborne Assault

• The airborne assault into Normandy was the largest use of airborne troops up to that time.
• Paratroopers of the U.S. 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, the British 6th Airborne Division, the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion, and other attached Allied units took part in the assault.
• Numbering more than 13,000 men, the paratroopers were flown from bases in southern England to the Cotentin Peninsula in approximately 925 C-47 airplanes.
• An additional 4,000 men, consisting of glider infantry with supporting weapons, medical, and signal units were to arrive in 500 gliders later on D-Day to reinforce the paratroopers.
• The parachute troops were assigned what was probably the most difficult task of the initial operation - a night jump behind enemy lines five hours before the coastal landings.
• Despite the difficulties, the paratroopers fought fiercely, causing confusion among the German commanders and keeping the German’s troops occupied.
• Their efforts; hampered by harsh weather, darkness and disorganization, and initiative of resourceful Soldiers and leaders, ensured that the Utah Beach assault objectives were eventually accomplished.

Test your knowledge on the airborne assault into Normandy, which was the largest use of airborne troops up to that time. Learn about the paratroopers of various Allied divisions, their mission behind enemy lines, and their pivotal role in the success of the Utah Beach assault.