Normandy (6 June-19 August) AAR

[bdtj1815]

German AAR

From 84th Corps, 6th June 1944, St Lo to OKW

Allied parachute landings and seaborne landings in divisional strength reported from the Cotentin peninsula to the east of the Orne River.

Three Parachute divisions, two American and one British, and six infantry divisions, three American and three British, identified in action so far. Conclude that this is a major undertaking with the intention to develop full scale operations.

In the west a large scale parachute landing by two American divisions supported by the seaborne landing of one infantry division has resulted in the creation of a bridgehead approximately 20 kms deep and 15 kms wide bounded by the River Douve and the line Azeville-Orglandes-Etienville. Casualties have been light and reaction forces are being moved to contain the perimeter.

A landing by two American divisions on a frontage of 8kms in the area of 352nd Infantry division (ID) north of Formigny has resulted in enormous casualties for the invading toops. Small incursions off the beaches have only reached 2kms inland and further significant advances are unlikely.

The British landing between Arromances and Riva Bella consisting of three divisions have pushed inland approximately 5kms, greatly helped by the support of many special engineer vehicles, which surprisingly were not used by the Americans. 716th ID has suffered heavy casualties but has fought well and inflicted severe damage to the invading forces.

Across the whole front very heavy air and naval support has played an important part in the invaders operations.

Reinforcements requested to allow for the destruction of Allied bridgeheads.