General Eisenhower Exhorts Paratroopers - June 5, 1944
On the evening of June 5th, the largest invasion in modern history began across the English Channel in a 3 phase attack (paratroopers, aerial bombardment, amphibious landing) on Normandy, France. In spite of terrible weather conditions, General Dwight Eisenhower, the Supreme Allied Commander, decided it was now or never. He told his driver, "I hope to God I'm right."
That same evening, Eisenhower wrote brief notes (currently on display at the Eisenhower Library in Abilene, Kansas) for a speech he would have to give if the invasion plans failed. Following is a transcript of the above letter:
Our landings in the Cherbourg-Havre area failed to gain a satisfactory foothold and I have withdrawn the troops...My decision to attack at this time and place was based upon the best information available. 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.
General Eisenhower then put the note (he mistakenly dated it July 5th) into his wallet...thankfully, a speech he never had to give.
Our landings in the Cherbourg-Havre area failed to gain a satisfactory foothold and I have withdrawn the troops...My decision to attack at this time and place was based upon the best information available. 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.
General Eisenhower then put the note (he mistakenly dated it July 5th) into his wallet...thankfully, a speech he never had to give.
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