William I. Hitchcock, the Randolph P. Compton Professor at the University of Virginia's Miller Center of Public Affairs, is the author of " The Age of Eisenhower: America and the World in the 1950s " (Simon and Schuster). The views expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.
(CNN) Seventy-four years ago this week, 132,000 soldiers stormed the beaches of Normandy, France in the greatest amphibious and air invasion ever attempted in wartime. June 6, 1944 stands out in our collective memory as a day of enormous personal heroism and sacrifice, and it will always be a hallowed date for Americans as well as for the French people, for whom D-Day marked the start of their liberation from Nazi tyranny.
In 2018, however, the D-Day story carries even more power and weight because we live in a political climate that denigrates the very sources of strength that made the D-Day invasion such a dramatic success.
Take Big Government. In today's political parlance, nothing could be worse than the bloated, inefficient federal government. Ronald Reagan built his career using the tag line : "The nine most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I'm here to help." President Trump has mocked government, waging war against law enforcement and calling Washington a " swamp ."
In 1944, government was not the enemy, it was the organizing force that won the war. The United States Armed Forces that fought and won World War II provide an enduring example of what good government can do. During the war, 16 million Americans put on a uniform. Americans paid high income taxes, rationed their food, worked in government-funded industries and sent their sons to die overseas to defend freedom. Being an American in 1944 meant working with fellow citizens, sharing sacrifices, and honoring the nation above individual needs.
That is the spirit of D-Day. The greatest generation could not have done it alone.
President Trump has made it fashionable to deny the value of having allies, but D-Day reminds us that we are at our best when we stand together with our friends. On June 6, 1944, more British Commonwealth troops landed on the Normandy beaches than Americans. The commander of the ground forces that day was a Brit, General Bernard Montgomery, as were the commanders of the naval and air forces on that day. Victory over the Germans in France that summer came only through close partnership with our British and Canadian allies who fought and died alongside American boys to defend freedom.
Finally, on D-Day, we should recall the essence of leadership. Brow-beating, bullying, and sneering at political opponents is no way to motivate men to face the trial of combat. The Supreme Allied Commander, Dwight D. "Ike" Eisenhower, knew this well. He had been sending American men to die in battle since the landings in North Africa in November 1942. But the invasion of France was by the far the biggest and most risky operation the forces under his command had ever attempted. With a single command from him, a gigantic armada of over 6,000 ships would be sent across the churning waters of the English Channel into the teeth of the German defenses and a shoreline strewn with barbed wire, mines and machine gun nests. Eisenhower held the lives of his men in his hands.
Ike spent the hours before the invasion at the Greenham Common airfield in southern England, from which the men of the 82nd and 101st Airborne divisions would mount their planes and fly into the night sky on the way to France. He casually chatted with them, asking them where they were from, talking of fishing, and home.
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Eisenhower knew that the operation could fail. As the Supreme Commander, any failure would be his fault, and his alone. He was prepared to take full responsibility for it. The night before the landings, he jotted down a small note on a slip of paper so it could be ready to hand to the press in case of disaster. "Our landings," he wrote, "have failed. ... The troops, the air, and the Navy did all that bravery and devotion to duty could do. If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt it is mine alone." Ike understood the essence of leadership. It was the job of the leader to accept the blame for failure, and to give praise to the heroism of the common fighting man.
Donald Trump, meanwhile, takes all the credit, personally, for any positive news, such as good employment numbers or the stock market, even when he benefits from the work of his predecessor. But he adamantly refuses to apologize for his numerous gaffes, insults and misstatements.
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D-Day was a day of greatness for America, but its success depended upon certain virtues of a noble people. In World War II, the American government and its leaders brought citizens together in a common enterprise of immense complexity and sacrifice. Americans fought alongside allies, British and Canadians who burned no less fiercely in their desire to defeat Hitler's monstrous Third Reich. And American leaders understood the importance of humility and decency, and offered moral examples to the world. D-Day is not just a date in the history books. It reminds us of who we once were, and could become again.
As we mark the 74th anniversary of D-Day Wednesday – a pivotal day when Allied forces landed in France to begin the liberation of Europe from the Nazis in World War II – I’m reminded how this historical moment wouldn’t have happened without the courageous Americans who responded to the call to serve their country.
It all began with three words: “Remember Pearl Harbor.” These words rallied people to enlist in the military after the Japanese attack on the U.S. Navy base in Hawaii on Dec. 7, 1941. The tragic attack pulled America together in a dark time, when war threatened everything we valued — our families, friends and our very freedoms.
Similarly, 60 years later, many people were inspired to unite and enlist in the military to serve their country after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Millions of Americans have entered military service since that day.
Army Sgt. and recruiter Cheri Depenbrock told the American Forces Press Service in 2001 that she had never seen such resolve to defend America as she did after 9/11.
“It was amazing the people walking into (our Cincinnati) office, the ages,” Depenbrock said. “We had so many prior-service folks wanting to come back. I was amazed at how many older people tried … some of them were in their fifties.”
“It was all about the patriotism. They didn’t care about anything else. Money had nothing do with it. I swear, I think half those (younger) kids would have joined if we hadn’t paid them.”
Did these inspiring phenomena happen because our country suddenly became more patriotic in both of these cases of national tragedy? Not necessarily. We were sobered as a country by both attacks. But we were also suddenly and violently made aware of enemies who wanted us dead and threatened our values. And every generation who loved their country and livelihoods enough responded.
Yes, we were sobered. But we were not numbed by any means. We were made aware, we resolved to unite, and we readied ourselves to fight back against darkness, no matter what might try to hold us back.
As Christians, it can be all too easy to go about our daily lives without ever thinking about how we are at war with dark spiritual forces that we can’t always see. But Paul warns us not to be complacent, saying “keep alert with all perseverance” (Ephesians 6:18).
How can you play your part and persevere in this spiritual war?
Your secret weapon is prayer. Prayer might not feel particularly aggressive or militant, but it is by prayer alone that you and I can engage and overcome the enemy of our souls. This kind of prayer could be called “warfare prayer.”
Think of it this way: warfare prayer is a discipline, an attack aimed at the forces of darkness that we must be aware of around us. To engage in warfare prayer is to ask for God’s help to get in on his plan, not to ask him for help with our plans. Warfare prayer worships God for the love he lavishes on us daily. In short, warfare prayer is full of gratitude.
But warfare prayer is also hard work. Paul does not give us any leeway for time off. He tells us again in Ephesians 6:18 to be “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.”
We know how prayer can change our lives and attitudes. But if you have not yet thought of prayer as a powerful weapon, let me encourage you with this: our world needs more believers like you dispelling the darkness as you fight these spiritual battles. Warfare, with God’s help, begins on your knees.
Photos
June 6, 2018, marks the 74th anniversary of the D-Day invasion, also called Operation Overlord, which saw 156,000 American, British and Canadian forces land on five beaches along a 50-mile stretch of the heavily fortified coast of Normandy region to begin the liberation of France and turn the tide of the war against the Nazis.
(Pictured) Lt. Commander D.W. Pifers, D.S.C., R.C.N., of Halifax, commanding officer of H.M.C.S. Algonquin, one of Canada’s most powerful destroyers, briefs his ship’s company, while on route to the invasion beachhead in 1944.
Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images Image 1 of / 90 Caption Close
Image 1 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, Troops of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division are landing at Juno Beach on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer on D-Day. 6th June 1944. 14,000 Canadian soldiers were put ashore and 340 lost their live in the battles for the beachhead. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, Troops of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division are landing at Juno Beach on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer on D-Day. 6th June 1944. 14,000 Canadian soldiers were put ashore and ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 2 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, British Navy Landing Crafts (LCA-1377) carry United States Army Rangers to a ship in Southern England. 1st June 1944. There are British soldiers in the conning station. Rangers embark and remain consigned five days on board English ships for safety measure. The troops will participate in the invasion of Normandy, France. Weymouth, United Kingdom. less Operation Overlord Normandy, British Navy Landing Crafts (LCA-1377) carry United States Army Rangers to a ship in Southern England. 1st June 1944. There are British soldiers in the conning station. Rangers ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 3 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division are on patrol near Juno Beach where they landed on D-Day on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer. 6th June 1944. 14,000 Canadians were put ashore and 340 lost their live in the battles for the beachhead. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division are on patrol near Juno Beach where they landed on D-Day on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer. 6th June 1944. 14,000 Canadians were ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 4 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, United States Army trucks, jeeps and other vehicles have entered a town in Normandy, France. June 1944. They are part of the invasion troops fighting the German Army. France. Operation Overlord Normandy, United States Army trucks, jeeps and other vehicles have entered a town in Normandy, France. June 1944. They are part of the invasion troops fighting the German Army. France. Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
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Image 6 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, German prisoners of war are on board a Landing Craft Transport (LCT). June 1944. They will be taken to a Liberty Ship in the English Channel during the Allied invasion of Normandy. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, German prisoners of war are on board a Landing Craft Transport (LCT). June 1944. They will be taken to a Liberty Ship in the English Channel during the Allied invasion of Normandy. ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 7 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, United States Rangers have boarded a Landing Craft Assault (LCA) in a port in Southern England. 5th June 1944. They are holding a 60mm mortar, a Bazooka, a Garand rifle and a pack of Lucky Strike cigarettes. The ship and will depart for Omaha Beach, Normandy, France. United Kingdom. less Operation Overlord Normandy, United States Rangers have boarded a Landing Craft Assault (LCA) in a port in Southern England. 5th June 1944. They are holding a 60mm mortar, a Bazooka, a Garand rifle and a pack ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 8 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, A United States truck is entering a Landing Craft Tank (LCT) in a port in Southern England. June 1944. The ship and will depart for Omaha Beach , Normandy, France. United Kingdom. Operation Overlord Normandy, A United States truck is entering a Landing Craft Tank (LCT) in a port in Southern England. June 1944. The ship and will depart for Omaha Beach , Normandy, France. United Kingdom. Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 9 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, A truck of the 1st Infantry Division of the United States Army is loaded into the Landing Ship Tank in Southern England. June 1944. The LST forms part of Group 30 of the LST Flotilla. The 1st Division was one of the two divisions that stormed Omaha Beach in Normandy, France on D-Day suffering high casualties. Dorset, United Kingdom. less Operation Overlord Normandy, A truck of the 1st Infantry Division of the United States Army is loaded into the Landing Ship Tank in Southern England. June 1944. The LST forms part of Group 30 of the LST ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
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Image 11 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, A group of 15 injured soldiers is on the deck of a boat. June 1944. Six nurses are taking care of them. Coast of Normandy, France. Operation Overlord Normandy, A group of 15 injured soldiers is on the deck of a boat. June 1944. Six nurses are taking care of them. Coast of Normandy, France. Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 12 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division of the United States Army have boarded the Landing Craft Transport (LCT) named ëChannel Feverí ) in Southern England. 5th June 1944. They are ready for the landing in France. The 1st Division was one of the two divisions that stormed Omaha Beach in Normandy, France on D-Day suffering high casualties. Dorset, United Kingdom. less Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division of the United States Army have boarded the Landing Craft Transport (LCT) named ëChannel Feverí ) in Southern England. 5th June 1944. They are ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 13 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers are checking their assignments in a tent near the port. June 1944. The sign at the entrance says: ëCheck Rosters Hereí. They will leave from here to participate in the invasion of Normandy, France. Weymouth, United Kingdom. less Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers are checking their assignments in a tent near the port. June 1944. The sign at the entrance says: ëCheck Rosters Hereí. They will leave from here to participate in the ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 14 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, A United States Army ambulance jeep is entering a Landing Craft Transport (LCT) in a port in Southern England. June 1944. The ship and will depart for Normandy, France. United Kingdom. less Operation Overlord Normandy, A United States Army ambulance jeep is entering a Landing Craft Transport (LCT) in a port in Southern England. June 1944. The ship and will depart for Normandy, France. United ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
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Image 16 of 90 United States Rangers from E Company, 5th Ranger Battalion on board a landing craft assault vessel (LCA) off the port of Weymouth, Dorset, 5th June 1944. They are holding a 60mm mortar, a Bazooka, a Garand rifle and a pack of Lucky Strike cigarettes. The ship is bound for Omaha Beach, Normandy, France. less United States Rangers from E Company, 5th Ranger Battalion on board a landing craft assault vessel (LCA) off the port of Weymouth, Dorset, 5th June 1944. They are holding a 60mm mortar, a Bazooka, a Garand ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 17 of 90 Landing Ship Tank (LST-357) loading an ambulance at Portland Harbour, Dorset, before the D-Day landings, 5th June 1944. It will soon depart to participate in the cross channel invasion of Omaha Beach in Normandy. less Landing Ship Tank (LST-357) loading an ambulance at Portland Harbour, Dorset, before the D-Day landings, 5th June 1944. It will soon depart to participate in the cross channel invasion of Omaha Beach in ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 18 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, Troops of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division are landing at Juno Beach on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer on D-Day. 6th June 1944. 14,000 Canadian soldiers were put ashore and 340 lost their live in the battles for the beachhead. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, Troops of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division are landing at Juno Beach on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer on D-Day. 6th June 1944. 14,000 Canadian soldiers were put ashore and ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 19 of 90 Operation Overlord, Vessels are waiting for the start of D-Day operations in an English port of embarkation. 4th June 1944. USS LST-314 (center) departed English waters as part of the second wave on 6th June. 9th June, it was torpedoed by a German E-boat and sank off the coast of Normandy. Great Britain. less Operation Overlord, Vessels are waiting for the start of D-Day operations in an English port of embarkation. 4th June 1944. USS LST-314 (center) departed English waters as part of the second wave on 6th June. ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
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Image 21 of 90 Operation Overlord, Three American GIs are playing dart in a camp near their port of embarkation in the south of England. June 1944. The D-Day invasion fleet consisted of 5,000 ships carrying 170,000 assault troops. Great Britain. less Operation Overlord, Three American GIs are playing dart in a camp near their port of embarkation in the south of England. June 1944. The D-Day invasion fleet consisted of 5,000 ships carrying 170,000 assault ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 22 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, An American ambulance, a jeep and other vehicles are driving through the ruins of Saint-Lo. August 1944. The town was almost totally destroyed by 2,000 Allied bombers when they attacked German troops stationed there during Operation Overlord in June. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, An American ambulance, a jeep and other vehicles are driving through the ruins of Saint-Lo. August 1944. The town was almost totally destroyed by 2,000 Allied bombers when they ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 23 of 90 US troops on the Esplanade at Weymouth, Dorset, on their way to embark on ships bound for Omaha Beach for the D-Day landings in Normandy, June 1944. US troops on the Esplanade at Weymouth, Dorset, on their way to embark on ships bound for Omaha Beach for the D-Day landings in Normandy, June 1944. Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 24 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, Two American soldiers are watching two United States Army jeeps driving through the ruins of the center of Saint-Lo. August 1944. The town was almost totally destroyed by 2,000 Allied bombers when they attacked German troops stationed there during Operation Overlord in June. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, Two American soldiers are watching two United States Army jeeps driving through the ruins of the center of Saint-Lo. August 1944. The town was almost totally destroyed by 2,000 ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
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Image 26 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, Three American soldiers from the 1st Engineer Special Brigade are looking at photos from home. June 1944. Landing Ships Tank (LST) and other vessels are on the beach at Omaha and barrage balloons are up in the air for protection. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, Three American soldiers from the 1st Engineer Special Brigade are looking at photos from home. June 1944. Landing Ships Tank (LST) and other vessels are on the beach at Omaha and ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 27 of 90 (page 32 du livre : Jour J à l'aube, les troupes d'assaut américaines en Normandie de Jonathan Gawne chez Histoire & Collections, 1998) " La 1st Division s'apprête à prendre la mer pour la Normandie. L'insigne de la Big Red One figure sur presque tous les casques d'acier, et souvent à l'épaule gauche. Tous ces hommes portent la tenue de combat avec pantalon de laine et blouson de combat M1941 ou blouson de tankiste. Derrière ces hommes sont visibles les grues sur ponton qui serviront au génie à débarder des approvisionnements sur les plages dès la fin de l'assaut. A droite se tient un soldat noir en tenue de treillis, qui appartient probablement au 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion ou à l'un des éléments de soutien de la 5e brigade amphibie du génie. Le soldat assis au premier plan, dont le bas du pantalon est retroussé, est assis sur un gilet d'assaut de toile verte. La plupart des brodequins sont noircis par la graisse anti-vésicants. " less (page 32 du livre : Jour J à l'aube, les troupes d'assaut américaines en Normandie de Jonathan Gawne chez Histoire & Collections, 1998) " La 1st Division s'apprête à prendre la mer pour la Normandie. ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 28 of 90 Embarquement sur les navires, début juin 1944 - Opération Overlord Embarquement sur le LST-134 d'un camion GMC équipé d'un shelter type HO/HQ-17 et devant la remorque K-52/PE95, sur le pare-choc un filet de camouflage depuis Portland, prévu pour Easy Red transporte les unités attachées au HQ Division, de la 1st ID. Présent au sein de La Task Force 124.5 (Assault Groupe 0-3) Elle devait débarquer les unités du 18th RCT sur les plages de Fox Green et d'Easy Red (secteur Est d'Omaha Beach) le 6 juin 1944. Ce LST fait partie du Groupe 30 de la LST Flotilla 12 Voir la p013195. A H+860 Débarque sur le Rhino ferry RHF 14/3 des éléments 701st Ord LM Co, 1st QM, de la 1st ID B Co du 37th ECB, B Co du 336th ECB, attaché 4042nd QM Trk Co et des détachements du 1st Med Depot, du 5th ESB, 635th TD Bn attaché à la 1st ID 320th Ballon Barrage Bn VLA attaché au V Corps, soit (115 hommes et 38 véhicules) et à H+950 des éléments Détachements du 175th Signal Repair Co attachés au ESB, 3250th Signal Sv Co, Bn du V Corps. Soit (100 hommes et 24 véhicules) Le personnel débarque sur des LCVP Détachements du 218th Signal Depot Co attachés au ESB, 302d MP Escort Co élément du HQ Prov ESB Gp, 3205th QM Sv Co élément du 6th ESB, Soit (62 hommes) less Embarquement sur les navires, début juin 1944 - Opération Overlord Embarquement sur le LST-134 d'un camion GMC équipé d'un shelter type HO/HQ-17 et devant la remorque K-52/PE95, sur le pare-choc un filet ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 29 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, A catholic nun and two young girls are standing in front of the ruins of the bombed Eglise Saint-Malo in Valognes, Brittany. July 1944. The town was badly damaged during the Allied drive on Cherbourg in June. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, A catholic nun and two young girls are standing in front of the ruins of the bombed Eglise Saint-Malo in Valognes, Brittany. July 1944. The town was badly damaged during the Allied ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
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Image 31 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, United States Army trucks and jeeps are driving through the ruins of Saint-Lo. July 1944. A group of American soldiers is walking along the street. The town was almost totally destroyed by 2,000 Allied bombers when they attacked German troops stationed there during Operation Overlord in June. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, United States Army trucks and jeeps are driving through the ruins of Saint-Lo. July 1944. A group of American soldiers is walking along the street. The town was almost totally ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 32 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, The church Notre Dame has been heavily damaged during the attacks on Saint-Lo. August 1944. The town was almost totally destroyed by 2,000 Allied bombers when they attacked German troops stationed there during Operation Overlord in June. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, The church Notre Dame has been heavily damaged during the attacks on Saint-Lo. August 1944. The town was almost totally destroyed by 2,000 Allied bombers when they attacked German ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 33 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division have set up anti-aircraft guns on Juno Beach where they landed on D-Day on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer. 6th June 1944. German Luftwaffe war planes are still active in the area. 14,000 Canadian soldiers were put ashore and 340 lost their live in the battles for the beachhead. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division have set up anti-aircraft guns on Juno Beach where they landed on D-Day on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer. 6th June 1944. German ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 34 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, An Allied plane has crashed during the fighting in Normandy. June 1944. Whatever is left is burning. France. Operation Overlord Normandy, An Allied plane has crashed during the fighting in Normandy. June 1944. Whatever is left is burning. France. Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
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Image 36 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division are trying to set up an anti-aircraft gun. June 1944. The emplacement is near Juno Beach. German Luftwaffe war planes are still active in the area. 14,000 Canadian soldiers were put ashore and 340 lost their live in the battles for the beachhead. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division are trying to set up an anti-aircraft gun. June 1944. The emplacement is near Juno Beach. German Luftwaffe war planes are still active ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 37 of 90 Boats full of United States troops waiting to leave Weymouth, Southern England, to take part in Operation Overlord in Normandy, June 1944. This location was used as a launching place for Allied troops participating in the invasion of Nazi-occupied France on D-Day, 6th June 1944. less Boats full of United States troops waiting to leave Weymouth, Southern England, to take part in Operation Overlord in Normandy, June 1944. This location was used as a launching place for Allied troops ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 38 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, Four Allied soldiers are looking at a map in the center of a town in Normandy. June 1944. Two French policemen are also looking. France. Operation Overlord Normandy, Four Allied soldiers are looking at a map in the center of a town in Normandy. June 1944. Two French policemen are also looking. France. Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 39 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division have set up a mortar on Juno Beach where they landed on D-Day on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer. 6th June 1944. 14,000 Canadians were put ashore and 340 lost their live in the battles for the beachhead. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, Soldiers of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division have set up a mortar on Juno Beach where they landed on D-Day on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer. 6th June 1944. 14,000 Canadians ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
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Image 41 of 90 Operation Overlord Deutsche Gefangene am Strand Normandie Juni 1944 Foto: Signal Corps Galerie Bilderwelt, Berlin Operation Overlord Deutsche Gefangene am Strand Normandie Juni 1944 Foto: Signal Corps Galerie Bilderwelt, Berlin Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 42 of 90 Deutsche Gefangene Prisonniers allemands 1944 Foto: Signal Corps Galerie Bilderwelt, Berlin Deutsche Gefangene Prisonniers allemands 1944 Foto: Signal Corps Galerie Bilderwelt, Berlin Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 43 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, A street in Cherbourg, which has recently been liberated by the United States Army. July 1944. Two American sailors and a GI are in the street. More than 10,000 German prisoners have been taken. 2,800 American soldiers died in the battle. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, A street in Cherbourg, which has recently been liberated by the United States Army. July 1944. Two American sailors and a GI are in the street. More than 10,000 German prisoners ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 44 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, A catholic priest is performing a religious service in the Normandy American Cemetary of Colleville sur Mer. July 1944. The town is near Omaha Beach where the largest battle of the invasion took place after the landings on 6th June. less Operation Overlord Normandy, A catholic priest is performing a religious service in the Normandy American Cemetary of Colleville sur Mer. July 1944. The town is near Omaha Beach where the largest battle of the ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
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Image 46 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, A boy and a girl are standing in the market in Cherbourg, which has recently been liberated by the United States Army. July 1944. More than 10,000 German prisoners have been taken. 2,800 American soldiers died in the battle. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, A boy and a girl are standing in the market in Cherbourg, which has recently been liberated by the United States Army. July 1944. More than 10,000 German prisoners have been taken. ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 47 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, American troops with German prisoners of war on board a Landing Craft Transport (LCT). June 1944. They will be taken to a Liberty Ship in the English Channel during the Allied invasion of Normandy. less Operation Overlord Normandy, American troops with German prisoners of war on board a Landing Craft Transport (LCT). June 1944. They will be taken to a Liberty Ship in the English Channel during the Allied ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 48 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, A Canadian soldier is directing traffic in Bernieres-sur-Mer. 6th June 1944. The Canadians landed at Juno Beach which is nearby. 14,000 Canadian soldiers were put ashore and 340 lost their live in the battles for the beachhead. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, A Canadian soldier is directing traffic in Bernieres-sur-Mer. 6th June 1944. The Canadians landed at Juno Beach which is nearby. 14,000 Canadian soldiers were put ashore and 340 ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 49 of 90 United States Rangers from E Company, 5th Ranger Battalion on board a landing craft assault vessel (LCA) off the port of Weymouth, Dorset, 5th June 1944. They are holding a 60mm mortar, a Bazooka, a Garand rifle and a pack of Lucky Strike cigarettes. The ship is bound for Omaha Beach, Normandy, France. less United States Rangers from E Company, 5th Ranger Battalion on board a landing craft assault vessel (LCA) off the port of Weymouth, Dorset, 5th June 1944. They are holding a 60mm mortar, a Bazooka, a Garand ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
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Image 51 of 90 US troops of the 5th Army, 1st Division, loading tanks onto land from naval ships during World War Two, prior to the Battle of Anzio, Italy, 1944. US troops of the 5th Army, 1st Division, loading tanks onto land from naval ships during World War Two, prior to the Battle of Anzio, Italy, 1944. Photo: A. E. French, Getty Images
Image 52 of 90 US troops of the 5th Army, 1st Division, loading tanks onto land from naval ships during World War Two, prior to the Battle of Anzio, Italy, 1944. US troops of the 5th Army, 1st Division, loading tanks onto land from naval ships during World War Two, prior to the Battle of Anzio, Italy, 1944. Photo: A. E. French, Getty Images
Image 53 of 90 MARINE DIVE BOMBERS, PACIFIC THEATRE, WORLD WAR II MARINE DIVE BOMBERS, PACIFIC THEATRE, WORLD WAR II Photo: Petrified Collection, Getty Images
Image 54 of 90 USA BOMBER FORMATION OVER GERMANY IN WORLD WAR II USA BOMBER FORMATION OVER GERMANY IN WORLD WAR II Photo: Petrified Collection, Getty Images
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Image 56 of 90 A milkman delivering milk in a London street devastated during a German bombing raid. Firemen are dampening down the ruins behind him. A milkman delivering milk in a London street devastated during a German bombing raid. Firemen are dampening down the ruins behind him. Photo: Fred Morley, Getty Images
Image 57 of 90 US TROOPS DURING THE ALLIED INVASION, FRANCE US TROOPS DURING THE ALLIED INVASION, FRANCE Photo: Archive Holdings Inc., Getty Images
Image 58 of 90 1939: Steel helmeted German troops marching into Prague during the invasion of Czechoslovakia. By-standers are giving them a Nazi salute. 1939: Steel helmeted German troops marching into Prague during the invasion of Czechoslovakia. By-standers are giving them a Nazi salute. Photo: Three Lions, Getty Images
Image 59 of 90 A woman working in an airplane assembly plant checking the electrical assembly in the 1940's. A woman working in an airplane assembly plant checking the electrical assembly in the 1940's. Photo: FPG, Getty Images
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Image 61 of 90 UNITED STATES - JANUARY 01: A Machine Gunner In Action In A Bombardier In Us Air Force UNITED STATES - JANUARY 01: A Machine Gunner In Action In A Bombardier In Us Air Force Photo: Keystone-France, Getty Images
Image 62 of 90 UNITED STATES - JANUARY 01: Bomber And Gunner In Full Action In His Marauder B 26 At Unite States In North America During Forties UNITED STATES - JANUARY 01: Bomber And Gunner In Full Action In His Marauder B 26 At Unite States In North America During Forties Photo: Keystone-France, Getty Images
Image 63 of 90 Operation Overlord Normandy, The Saskatchewan Regiment of the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division is landing at Juno Beach on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer on D-Day. 6th June 1944. 14,000 Canadian soldiers were put ashore and 340 lost their live in the battles for the beachhead. France. less Operation Overlord Normandy, The Saskatchewan Regiment of the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division is landing at Juno Beach on the outskirts of Bernieres-sur-Mer on D-Day. 6th June 1944. 14,000 Canadian soldiers were ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
Image 64 of 90 B-29's in flight & above clouds on bombi B-29's in flight & above clouds on bombi Photo: LOOMIS DEAN, Getty Images
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Image 66 of 90 Streetcars running through ruins of bldg Streetcars running through ruins of bldg Photo: WILLIAM VANDIVERT, Getty Images
Image 67 of 90 World War II, Bomb Damage, England, pic: 1945, Tower Bridge overlooks a scene of destruction at Great Tower Street, London with rubble and the shells of buildings after German wartime bombing World War II, Bomb Damage, England, pic: 1945, Tower Bridge overlooks a scene of destruction at Great Tower Street, London with rubble and the shells of buildings after German wartime bombing Photo: Popperfoto, Getty Images
Image 68 of 90 Female pilot of the US Women's Air Force Service p Female pilot of the US Women's Air Force Service p Photo: PETER STACKPOLE, Getty Images
Image 69 of 90 As pedestrians watch, an American sailor passionately kisses a white-uniformed nurse in Times Square to celebrate the long awaited-victory over Japan. August 14, 1945. This is an outtake that is not the iconic image for which Eisenstaedt is widely know. less As pedestrians watch, an American sailor passionately kisses a white-uniformed nurse in Times Square to celebrate the long awaited-victory over Japan. August 14, 1945. This is an outtake that is not the iconic ... more Photo: Alfred Eisenstaedt, Getty Images
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Image 71 of 90 A view of a 50 calibur gun being used during US Army manuvers. A view of a 50 calibur gun being used during US Army manuvers. Photo: John Phillips, Getty Images
Image 72 of 90 OKINAWA, JAPAN - MAY: American soldier under fire of Japanese machine guns in the Death Valley where 125 US soldiers were killed in May 1945 in Okinawa, Japan. OKINAWA, JAPAN - MAY: American soldier under fire of Japanese machine guns in the Death Valley where 125 US soldiers were killed in May 1945 in Okinawa, Japan. Photo: Keystone-France, Getty Images
Image 73 of 90 The children of hop-pickers take cover in a trench in Kent, whilst watching a dogfight overhead during the Battle of Britain, UK, 1940. This image was published in Life Magazine in the States, with the aim of arousing public interest in the war in Europe. less The children of hop-pickers take cover in a trench in Kent, whilst watching a dogfight overhead during the Battle of Britain, UK, 1940. This image was published in Life Magazine in the States, with the aim of ... more Photo: Paul Popper/Popperfoto, Getty Images
Image 74 of 90 Taking winter warfare lessons from the Finns, men of the 28th Infantry ski down a slope during winter maneuvers, Pine Camp, New York, January 1940. Taking winter warfare lessons from the Finns, men of the 28th Infantry ski down a slope during winter maneuvers, Pine Camp, New York, January 1940. Photo: Underwood Archives, Getty Images
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Image 76 of 90 An American soldier from 7th Armored Division mans the machine gun of his tank while on maneuvers, 1940s. An American soldier from 7th Armored Division mans the machine gun of his tank while on maneuvers, 1940s. Photo: PhotoQuest, Getty Images
Image 77 of 90 A soldier bids farewell to two young ladies as he waits at a military siding in Britain during World War II, 1939. A soldier bids farewell to two young ladies as he waits at a military siding in Britain during World War II, 1939. Photo: Fox Photos, Getty Images
Image 78 of 90 A 16-year-old Princess Elizabeth registers for war service under the Ministry of Labour's Youth Registration Scheme, 25th April 1942. She is wearing her Girl Guide uniform. A 16-year-old Princess Elizabeth registers for war service under the Ministry of Labour's Youth Registration Scheme, 25th April 1942. She is wearing her Girl Guide uniform. Photo: Central Press, Getty Images
Image 79 of 90 An African American soldier of the 12th Armored Division, stands guard over a group of Nazi prisoners captured in the surrounding German forest, April 1945. He is holding a bayonet in his right hand and has his rifle tucked in his left arm, while the prisoners raise their arms in surrender. less An African American soldier of the 12th Armored Division, stands guard over a group of Nazi prisoners captured in the surrounding German forest, April 1945. He is holding a bayonet in his right hand and has his ... more Photo: Interim Archives, Getty Images
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Image 81 of 90 Solomon Islands, Bougainville, General Infantry using Flame Throwers Against Japanese during World War II Solomon Islands, Bougainville, General Infantry using Flame Throwers Against Japanese during World War II Photo: SuperStock, Getty Images
Image 82 of 90 Civilians atop bombed out ruins of buildings watching American C-54 cargo plane fly overhead during Allied Berlin airlift to bring food & supplies to beseiged citizens of Soviet controlled Berlin. Civilians atop bombed out ruins of buildings watching American C-54 cargo plane fly overhead during Allied Berlin airlift to bring food & supplies to beseiged citizens of Soviet controlled Berlin. Photo: CHARLES FENNO JACOBS, Getty Images
Image 83 of 90 American Nazis parade on East 86th St, New York. Dated around 1939, During the Second World War. American Nazis parade on East 86th St, New York. Dated around 1939, During the Second World War. Photo: Universal History Archive, Getty Images
Image 84 of 90 War and Conflict, World War Two, pic: circa 1939, A German airman painting a rooster on the side of his plane, aided by a live bird sitting on the fuselage War and Conflict, World War Two, pic: circa 1939, A German airman painting a rooster on the side of his plane, aided by a live bird sitting on the fuselage Photo: Popperfoto, Getty Images
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Image 86 of 90 Sailors and civilians celebrate the end of the war, 1945. Sailors and civilians celebrate the end of the war, 1945. Photo: Underwood Archives, Getty Images
Image 87 of 90 German Farming German Farming Photo: FPG, Getty Images
Image 88 of 90 World War 2: Winter on the Western Front. Caption: Wearing white camouflage, British troops exercise in Arctic weather on the Western Front. Official British postcard issued by the Ministry of Information. War Office Photograph B. 1508. (Photo by Culture Club/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** less World War 2: Winter on the Western Front. Caption: Wearing white camouflage, British troops exercise in Arctic weather on the Western Front. Official British postcard issued by the Ministry of Information. War ... more Photo: Culture Club, Getty Images
Image 89 of 90 Five U.S. Army soldiers are engaged in combat near Cologne cathedral, which has suffered seventy hits by aerial bombs during World War II. April 1945. Most of the town in this area was destroyed during the war. The last tank battle took place March 6, 1945 and it took another 5 weeks to liberate all of Cologne, Germany. less Five U.S. Army soldiers are engaged in combat near Cologne cathedral, which has suffered seventy hits by aerial bombs during World War II. April 1945. Most of the town in this area was destroyed during the war. ... more Photo: Galerie Bilderwelt, Getty Images
