Recognising Australia’s involvement in D-Day
In 1944, German forces controlled much of Western Europe, including France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. While the Russians were pushing the Germans out of the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, the Western Allies opened up a new front in Normandy, France by launching a major amphibious assault known as Operation Overlord.
In the days, weeks, and months before the invasion, Allied bombers targeted transport infrastructure in France to disrupt German movements.
In the early hours of Tuesday 6 June 1944, Allied forces landed on the coast of Normandy. That event is known as D-Day.
Although the success of the landings initially suggested a quick end to the war, the campaign to break out of Normandy lasted until mid-August, due to determined German resistance. The war in Europe continued until May 1945, with contributions from various Allied nations, including Australia.
While Australia’s involvement in Operation Overlord was limited due to our commitments in the South West Pacific theatre, Australians did play a role in the D-Day landings.
Around 3,300 Australians directly contributed to D-Day efforts. Some 2,800 Australian airmen from the Royal Air Force and the Royal Australian Air Force provided crucial aerial support and about 500 sailors served on Royal Navy vessels supporting the invasion.
Sadly, 13 Australians, all members of the Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force, lost their lives on D-Day. Many more Australian airmen died in support operations prior to and after the landings.
As we mark the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, it is important to recognise the sacrifice, resilience and contributions of all who served.
To learn more about the D-Day landings, visit the Anzac Portal.
Landing craft make their way to shore as part of the D-Day landings.
Credit: Australian War Memorial.