Remembering the Greatest Generation: Eisenhower's D-Day Speech to Allied Forces
SUMMARY
Today marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a pivotal moment in history where we pay tribute to the exceptional valor displayed by the brave souls who stormed the beaches of Normandy. Their unwavering courage and determination are immortalized in the resolute words of General Dwight D. Eisenhower.
STORY
The Greatest Generation. An Enormous Task.
In the lead-up to D-Day, Allied forces planned Operation Overlord, coordinating American, British, Canadian, and other troops for a surprise invasion of German-occupied France.
The success of this operation would mark a pivotal moment inWorld War II, heralding the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control.Eisenhower was determined to proceed with the operation, despite strategic disagreements and uncertain weather forecasts in Normandy.
As Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force,Eisenhower penned a speech for troops, known as the Order of the Day. It served as both a directive and an inspirational message, instilling courage and determination in soldiers, sailors, and airmen as they prepared for the fierce battle, which awaited them in Normandy.
The night before the invasion, Eisenhower's words were distributed to the 175,000-member expeditionary force, accompanied by a radio broadcast on June 6th and a message intended for residents in German-occupied Europe.
"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."
