Soldiers in Normandy

Each mini-guide allows the reader to get to know more about a region's history, linking historical events with places of interest and sites of note, as well as providing an unprecedented visual feast of contemporary photographs, uniforms, badges and equipment - all in full color. Practical informati [...]
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Each mini-guide allows the reader to get to know more about a region's history, linking historical events with places of interest and sites of note, as well as providing an unprecedented visual feast of contemporary photographs, uniforms, badges and equipment - all in full color. Practical information is included in each mini-guide and itineraries are suggested for those wishing to visit battlefields, monuments, memorials and museums. The American units that invaded Normandy were at full strength, well trained and supplied, and perfectly adept at teamwork. Although the vast majority of soldiers had no previous combat experience, they adapted quickly and effectively to the challenges confronting them in the Normandy countryside. The regular infantry doctrine of rapid progress was rendered useless by the fragmented bocage terrain however, and GIs were forced to refine the time-proven tactic of 'Fire and Movement.' They brought to bear heavy and violent artillery barrages in order to close in and quickly annihilate the enemy. The advanced communications technology used by the Americans gave them a decisive advantage but above all they benefited from superb logistical support, enabling rapid deployment of men and resources when needed. The U.S. Army made prodigious use of all kinds of vehicles, was not hindered at first by the fuel supply problems experienced by the enemy. American air supremacy and naval power also contributed mightily to German losses. Finally the cooperation between ground and air forces and between the artillery and the infantry as well the will to pursue the enemy relentlessly were crucial factors in the success of the American forces in Normandy.