On the basis of 1,400 oral histories from the men who were there, bestselling author and World War II historian Stephen E. Ambrose reveals for the first time anywhere that the intricate plan for the invasion of France in June 1944 had to be abandoned before the first shot was fired.
The true story of D-Day is about the citizen soldiers – junior officers and enlisted men – taking the initiative to act on their own to break through Hitler’s Atlantic Wall when they realized that nothing was as they had been told it would be. D-DAY is the brilliant, no holds barred, telling of the battles of Omaha and Utah beaches. Ambrose relives the epic victory of democracy on the most important day of the twentieth century.
“When you talk about combat leadership under fire on the beach at Normandy,” Ellery concluded, “I don’t see how the credit can go to anyone other than the company-grade officers and senior NCOs who led the way. It is good to be reminded that there are such men, that there always have been and always will be. We sometimes forget, I think, that you can manufacture weapons, and you can purchase ammunition, but you can’t buy valor and you can’t pull heroes off an assembly line.”
“D-Day: June 6, 1944” is a meticulously researched and engagingly written account of the Allied invasion of Normandy, a day that marked a turning point in World War II. As a renowned historian, Ambrose brings to life the events of that fateful day, weaving together personal stories, military strategy, and historical context to create a compelling narrative that is both informative and gripping.
One of the strengths of Ambrose’s book is its ability to balance the big picture with the intimate details of individual experiences. He masterfully intertwines the stories of soldiers, sailors, and airmen from both the Allied and Axis forces, providing a nuanced understanding of the invasion’s complexities and uncertainties. The author’s use of primary sources, including diaries, letters, and interviews with veterans, adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth to the narrative.
Ambrose’s writing is clear, concise, and free of jargon, making the book accessible to readers without a military background. He provides a thorough explanation of the invasion’s planning and execution, including the intelligence operations, naval and air support, and the grueling fighting on the beaches and beyond. The author’s vivid descriptions of the chaos, confusion, and brutality of war are both haunting and thought-provoking.
The book’s structure, which follows the events of D-Day in chronological order, creates a sense of tension and urgency, drawing the reader into the midst of the battle. Ambrose’s meticulous attention to detail and his commitment to historical accuracy ensure that the narrative is both engaging and trustworthy.
If there is a criticism to be made, it is that the book’s focus on the American experience sometimes overshadows the contributions of other Allied forces, such as the British, Canadian, and French troops. Additionally, some readers may find the sheer volume of names, units, and locations to be overwhelming, requiring a close attention to detail to keep track of the narrative.
Overall, however, “D-Day: June 6, 1944” is an outstanding work of historical nonfiction that deserves to be read by anyone interested in World War II, military history, or the human experience of war. Ambrose’s masterpiece is a testament to the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of the men and women who fought on D-Day, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of this pivotal event in shaping the course of modern history.
Recommendation: This book is essential reading for anyone interested in World War II, military history, or historical nonfiction. It is also a great introduction to the subject for readers new to the topic. While it may not be the most comprehensive or definitive account of D-Day, Ambrose’s engaging writing style and meticulous research make it an excellent starting point for further exploration.