Attacking the MOST Fortified Beach of Normandy | History Traveler Episode 180

This episode was produced in partnership with The Gettysburg Museum of History. See how you can support history education & artifact preservation by visiting their website & store at www.gettysburgmuseumofhistory...
Part 6 of the "Normandy 1944" Series
What was the most fortified beach of Normandy on D-Day? Many would say Omaha Beach, but that would be incorrect. In this episode, we're taking a look at the most heavily fortified beach of Normandy that was protecting a city that the Allied wanted to take as much as the Germans wanted to hold. In between the beach and the city would stand the subterranean stronghold of Hillman Battery.
Big thanks to Paul Woodadge of ‪@WW2TV‬ for his contributions to this episode. Be sure to watch and subscribe to his channel, which features the most in depth treatments on WWII with some of the world's leading historians.
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Other episodes that you might enjoy:
- Pegasus Bridge: The First Assault on D-Day (Episode 177): • Pegasus Bridge: The Fi...
- Staying in a 16th Century French Manor!!! (EP 49): • Staying in a 16th Cent...
- Exploring the FORGOTTEN 6th Beach of D-Day (EP 175): • Exploring the FORGOTTE...
- The Private Collection of Major Dick Winters (EP 151): • The Private Collection...
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[@TheHistoryUnderground]

If you've watched a few episodes and feel like I've earned it, be sure to subscribe so that you don't miss any new content when it comes out. Also be sure to check out The Gettysburg Museum of History and their store at www.gettysburgmuseumofhistory.com. Thanks!

[@artvalenzuela8307]

À

[@matthewrippingsby5384]

Oh, you've earned it!

[@JefferyWarshawsky-zs2el]

BIDEN DESERVES A GRADE OF AN F+

[@randyhuke3773]

​@@JefferyWarshawsky-zs2el An "F" grade ?? He should be kicked out of office, but a WEF controlled Democrat Senate will not allow it !!!

[@jimreilly917]

I’m 55. American. Well versed in WWII and DDAY history. But still learning. EVERY ALLIED SOLDIER who hit Normandy June 6 44 was a hero. Great presentation as usual. 🦅🇺🇸🇬🇧🇨🇦🇮🇪🇱🇺🇫🇷🇵🇱

[@davidking6172]

Paul as a British Army 22 year Veteran this coverage of a British battle has made me very happy. We do not get enough Utube videos on what we did in Normandy. Its all down to Hollywood and the movies. Every Country that took part did their fare share. Hat of to you my friend. And thanks for sharing 👍

[@gurleykristin]

Thank you for your service 💕

[@matthewarcher3024]

Agreed my friend

[@davidwillis4839]

Agreed. One of my good friends here in the States is a Nottingham guy. I will be sure to discuss this battle with him. This US ARMY vet appreciates the British/American brotherhood.

[@baronedipiemonte3990]

Thanks for your long service ! I agree there should be more history. I remarked the other day that there's no shortage of a-hole tourists making fun of Her Majesty's Royal Guards... And was shocked at the number of kids in the UK today who don't know about Dunkirk, and Churchill's Auxiliary Corps ... And there's kids over here in America who are equally ignorant of history and patriotism. By an American veteran 🇺🇲🤜🤛🇬🇧

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Agreed. Hopefully, people are sharing these videos and we can all work together to broaden our understanding of what happened on all fronts in the Battle of Normandy.

[@williamgardiner4956]

For a Yank this guy is just awesome being able to make people feel they've been there and his credit to Brits and Canadians are beyond commendable. About time folks.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Much respect for the hard fighting Brits and Canadians. Their story fascinates me.

[@Tribe2k]

no one knows war or kicking europeeon beta cuck ass better than a yank,

[@Hew.Jarsol]

A Yank with a brain! Rare.

[@stevenbrown7042]

I went to Normandy with my great uncle. He did it for my 21st birthday years ago. He landed with the 29th on Omaha. It was a mixed feeling. The reception was heartwarming but when we saw the sector of beach he landed on you get this massive chill down your spine knowing this place was a miracle he survived.

[@dbach1025]

Have to say, even without the Brit fella currating fantastically, the content here is awesome. Adding the insight from the British perspective just makes this video among your best. Kudos JD. I can't get enuff of this Normandy series. Great stuff, brother.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! Appreciate that. Got A LOT more coming. 😁

[@rogerrees1308]

From a British guy that enjoys your videos ver much I thank you for covering some of the British D-Day actions. Keep up the good work mate.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you like them! One thing that I'm hoping to do in this series is to expand the view that Americans have of D-Day. Hopefully, people are sharing these videos out.

[@jamesborgia141]

I am in my 80's now but I visited Normandy about 20 years ago. I cannot imagine the fear and anxiety the individuals felt. To understand the bravery of the allies you have to visit the beaches and then you have to pay tribute to the men buried at all the cemeteries. You're sad but proud of the men and women who sacrificed their all.

[@simonphillips3329]

Another great episode, thank you. And thanks especially for bringing the British contribution on D-Day to our friends in America. It's also worth reflecting on the fact that, had Britain not "stood alone" from 1940 onwards, there'd have been no jumping-off point for D-Day in 1944 (and I do appreciate that America kept us supplied during that period). We may be in a pretty poor state today, but I'm proud of what we did then. I once asked my mother, who served in the ATS (the women's branch of the British Army) in WW2, if she ever worried that we'd lose the war especially in the dark days of the Blitz etc. She said "No, never".

[@jvleasure]

Cheers from across the pond. I always do my best to make sure my students understand that fact for sure.

[@simonphillips3329]

@@jvleasure Thank you

[@raycollishaw673]

All alone. All 500 million of us.

[@GuyPipili]

Nice to learn more about British and Canadian involvement on D-day. All involved had an important part in this invasion. Thank you JD and Paul for more education of this incredible under taking.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you enjoyed it Hope that people get a little better look at the Commonwealth contributions through some of these videos.

[@LowCountryMack]

This was very informative and also sheds a huge light on the German defenses on and behind Sword beach that our Allies faced. Truly brings to the forefront what exactly stalled the British advance on June 6 and the push to Caen. Hats off and much respect to our British Brothers in Arms and the whole 'Allied Expeditionary Forces'.

[@dave3156]

Wow never knew how extensive the fortifications were defending Sword. Thanks for having Paul add his knowledge of the British sectors as it added a lot to the understanding of what went on. One of my takeaways of studying WWII in general is the multiple instances of intelligence failure (D-Day, Battle of the Bulge, and for that matter Pearl Harbor). Amazing what all these men accomplished with the lack of knowledge about what they were facing, and in many instances, the ineffectiveness of the bombing and naval gunfire. Heroes one and all. Excellent video thx

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Paul is something else. I was thankful for his help on this one. Pretty amazing what the guys who fought there accomplished.

[@alliedvictorytours]

Nicely done and a tip of the hat to Woody. It should also be mentioned that Hillman was cleared out and cleaned up through the efforts of the local population, whom we should be thankful for in preserving this site. A hugely underestimated and overlooked piece of German in-depth defence.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

It’s definitely helped to reframe how I view that part of the battle.

[@michae8jackson378]

Thank you to Paul for this report! I've known more about Sword but never about Hillman. We as Americans need to understand the British/Canadian part of June 6 much more. It's understandable that the British didn't reach Caen that day. Best laid plans of mice and men often go awry. Such truth in that statement. Every thing you do in combat must be changed as the battles evolve. Hollywood of course covers US side so much and British sadly doesn't get it's due. I'm glad you're covering so much that's needed JD. As always, bless you and Erik for doing ALL of this. Love that you're adding another drop a week!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! I've definitely learned a lot from Paul on this part of the battle. Like you said, Americans don't really get to hear much on the British and Canadian sectors.

[@OTDMilitaryHistory]

I agree! I try to bring more attention to the Canadian contribution at Normandy.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

@@OTDMilitaryHistory - Appreciate that.

[@danwoodliefphotography871]

This is why I had my family watch The Longest Day + rewatch Saving Private Ryan before visiting Normandy. The Longest Day so they would understand the bigger picture and appreciate places like Pegasus Bridge and Saving Private Ryan to appreciate the great cost. We visited Pegasus, the cemetery in Rainville, Arromanche, Juno, and Merville Battery. Unfortunately, we did not make it to Sword. It is truly incredible when you think of the scope of D-Day and the follow-up actions.

[@Osmiculture]

Thank you. It's a great service to us internetters to show why the Brits struggled to move in further. Is it me, or did the British and Canadian beach sections seem lower down than on the US sides? If so, an inland defence in depth (as opposed to an immediate tough wall of defences on cliffs, on the US terrain) and long delaying minefields seemed perfectly logical way of attempting to contain the invading Allied force behind Sword beach. Whatever the obstacles, it was clear that courage was amply required by all the Allied men on that day and in the period to come.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Yeah, that's accurate. You don't really see the bluffs on Sword and Juno like what you do on Omaha and to a certain extent, Gold. Much different areas that presented different challenges.

[@denisrobertmay875]

@@TheHistoryUnderground The Utah Beach areas were lower lying still but had more water obstacles. Hence the need to sieze and hold the causeways. The marshes between Carentan and Isigny were virtually impassable and US forces were not linked until 10th June ( the other beaches were linked by the 7th). Fusion of the beachheads was completed by the 12th.

[@cyndiebill6631]

Another great video. The more I watch these the better I understand what went on in Europe durning WWII. Seeing places I never heard of give me great appreciation for the soldiers who fought there. True hero’s everyone of them.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! So glad that the videos are broadening your scope of what happened like it did for me. Got a lot more on the way!!!

[@powercatjeffy]

Thank you! Being from Ike's hometown, I've always been enthralled with Normandy and D-Day, both the battles, and the logistics. It was so complicated. There was deception, cooperation, and amazing bravery across the area. I think what has always intrigued me about WW2 in general is that it's the only war in history where people and technology and tactics all matched in importance. Air power and tech became more dominant after this point, whereas the maturity of tech was much less before this. I know that's a bit of oversimplification, but the combination of the 3 factors really is fascinating.

[@jonmulack4226]

Individual battles such as this, with well told stories and permanent scared land marks make for a vivid account of only 1 of so many battles that occurred during WW2. I learn and appreciate more with each episode. Thank you.

[@SATFD07]

Damn brother what a great episode. Absolutely love this one. Truly appreciate all you do.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! I appreciate you watching.

[@normahird9059]

JD.... Again another enriching vlog. Your presentations are so dramatic. I know that I will never walk the beaches at Normandy. Your vlogs have made it possible for me to experience the battle. Thank you for your great effort.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

So glad that I could share the experience. Thank you so much for watching!

[@tennesse_courier]

In this week's episode of stuff I never learned in school. Outstanding video amazing stories. Fantastic History lesson.

[@robertmoyer175]

JD, thanks for being my eyes and ears on your journey through this important place in history

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

My pleasure! Glad that you're enjoying the series.

[@joefrawley5295]

Thanks for an insightful video on the British beaches. I cant wait to visit. Normandy is on our bucket list. Love your channel...thanks

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you enjoyed it! Pretty amazing place.

[@freezegopher7054]

Really a great episode and thanks for bringing in Mr. Paul Woodadge and letting him speak. It's really helpful to hear an expert do his thing. As an American it's not that we don't want to hear about the exploits of our allies it's just that growing up we weren't exposed to them very much. And any more in schools they barely teach what Americans did in WW2 let alone what our allies did!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Agreed on all points.

[@joshua.snyder]

I can't even imagine facing this. My grandfather was an Army paratrooper. He broke both legs on a training jump for D-Day, and was recovering when it unfolded. Saved his life. Tremendous video, as always!

[@peacemaker-du4hz]

thank your grandpa for his service ,he will never know how much he and all the men of ww2 are truely appreciated

[@carramrod8232]

Awesome story. My grandfather is a Marine vet of the Korean War. During their last leave before they shipped out he got in a bar fight and broke his jaw. His entire platoon was basically wiped out during a landing. He always says that that night of drinking saved his life.

[@peacemaker-du4hz]

@@carramrod8232 semper fidelis to your grandfather. my Dad was in korea during the war ,also a marine

[@carramrod8232]

@@peacemaker-du4hz he’s a good man. Still kicking, looking forward to Christmas with them. Merry Christmas to you

[@tomvalpo9361]

Amazing how these fortifications are still there and how you can see the challenges the troops faced. Great video.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks!

[@OTDMilitaryHistory]

Another great episode! Your channel has shot to the top of the list of my favourite KZbin channels. Can't wait for more. Also, its great to see Woody from WW2TV on the channel. I'm definitely adding Hillman to my list of places to visit once I get back to Normandy.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! I really do appreciate that. And yeah, Paul is the man. We'll be seeing him a lot more in future episodes.

[@philipmason3218]

When I visited in the eighties we were left just wandering round the beach area. I never fancied one of the guided tours so missed a massive amount. When the summer comes, 2022, a few of us are going back, this time with a tour guide. Many thanks for making these excellent videos. RIP 🙏 to ALL the men who lost their lives in the fighting, I honestly don't think I could have done it.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Quite the place. Hopefully this series of videos helps with the planning of your trip. I've got another series from an earlier trip that shows some more Normandy sites that you might like.

[@PaulSpencerImages2012]

I hope you have chosen a Good tour guide there is so much to see which sector do you want to visit First you will need at least 5 days just for the American sectors

[@belleisleloyalist5054]

Thank you for this great story. I visited Hillman last year not knowing the entire story. This has given me full context. As a CDN, I appreciate the broad scope of your videos. Thank you

[@dennisunglesbee1391]

Put me in that group that knows very little about the D-Day landings of our allies. That being said, I am learning so much from your outstanding videos. This may be your best video yet. Thanks for helping us to understand the unbelieveable scope of the entire operation.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! I really appreciate that.

[@TheNeeblez]

This video is so educational. I never knew the British had this obstacle on D-Day. Would live to come and see all the sites from D-Day, not just the famous ones but all of them. Thank you for making these history videos, very fascinating.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! A lot of people (at least Americans) don’t have a full appreciation for what the British were up against.

[@georgeredlewgit6891]

Not just the famous ones indeed ! Mate, they're all famous. it's just that you've never studied anything other than Omaha beach, which is normally what most Americans for the past 79 years think D Day was. - Omaha. Quite sad really. Hillman was only 1 of 9 of these defensive positions in depth between Sword beach and Caen. Hillman alone covered approximately 25 acres. British & Canadians also had a tank battle against elements of the German 12th Panzer Division in the area between Sword & Juno beaches before the beachheads were even established. Apart from these types of defensive positions in depth, the British & Canadian armoured divisions faced 8 - that's 8, German Panzer divisions around and to the east of Caen. British, Canadian and later, Polish, armour destroyed them all on the drive from Normandy into Germany. This allowed Patton's American breakout to the south & east from St Lo to begin at the end of July. Americans faced just 2 German Panzer divisions in Normandy & Brittany.

[@Mist3rData]

Man, this is very informative! Very much so the piece about Hillman. The bunker itself is awesome to see and i never knew the role it played on D-day. Much respect to the British troops who fought there, so good to pay attention to it. Well done!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! It's definitely underappreciated. Especially in the U.S.

[@ashishhkumarr5108]

Amazing indepth info. Thank you!!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks 🙏🏼

[@mgunny05]

Well done. I had not heard a lot about sword beach and the bravery of the Brits and Canadians. Thanks for Paul explaining all.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Paul does a great job breaking these engagements down. His channel is top shelf.

[@Shawnroberts1980]

What a great video JD. I had no idea. Thank you to Paul for his awesome knowledge.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Paul is the man. His channel is insanely good. Thanks!

[@erickstiner1668]

The description of this battle, was AMAZING. My heart rate increased, my vision narrowed and ears opened to the mental visions and sounds that must have been. The battle Somme’s was tragic and to have WWII battle Hillman, described as such, really brings to light the ground battles that took place to liberate Europe. GREAT video series JD. I salute you.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! Unfortunately, American don't get much exposure to the stories of what happened in the British and Canadian sectors. Hopefully, we can do a bit to change that.

[@67Mefisto]

For me it is a surprise every time that you know to find exactly the locations that I have already been allowed to visit, as if you are following my footsteps. In the US, only a few interesting locations that I hope you will cover, such as Antietam battlefield, Patriots Point, Bedford VA or the Mighty Eight museum in Savannah. If you ever come to this side of the ocean again, I would like to give you a tip to visit the battlefields of the First World War, because of the nature of that war more can be found. Certainly from the American perspective, a visit to the Salient of Saint-Michiel or Montfaucon is more than interesting. Big fan of your KZbin channel. (By the way, Leuchturm is German for Lighthouse.) Warm regards from the Netherlands.

[@paulb1912]

This is a great episode. As others have said Hollywood would have you think that it was only Americans that fought during D-Day. ALL did their part and I am very proud of America/Canada/UK and others who fought and died during 6th June 1944 and after and of course before.

[@skimmer8774]

Really great job describing and showing what the British had to endure. Very brave and courageous. Thank you.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thank you kindly!

[@markpalmer6760]

Really enjoy your videos, thank you

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

🙏🏼

[@michaelhiggins7072]

These videos are going to be useful for generations

[@lewistaylor1965]

As a Brit I cringed when I heard Tom Hanks in 'Saving Private Ryan' comment that 'Montys taking his time taking Caen' and Ted Danson replies 'That guy is over rated'...OUCH!...That hurts!....Great channel...Big thanks to Gettyburg Museum guys....How'd I miss this channel?....SUBSCRIBED

[@mpq1969]

Fantastic segment and very informative as always Paul. Too many don't know the reason it took so long to take Caen and this explains much of that, as well as expanding on the "other" invasion beaches we don't hear enough about. Good job.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you enjoyed it! And yes, Paul really knows his stuff. His channel is outstanding.

[@markbooth5268]

This is why I love this channel, as much as I have read about d day have not heard of this battle in this type of depth thank you for such a great video.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

👍🏻

[@palerider4015]

Thank you JD for this content. As a proud Brit it has been a source of great frustration to me that the perceived lack of progress on Caen was a source of ridicule by American forces (reference was made in the film ‘Saving Private Ryan’). This was so unfair when you realise the extent of opposition that the British forces encountered in their efforts to secure Caen..... in addition to the heavy fortifications but there were also entire divisions of highly trained SS panzer Troops - which were not encountered to this extent anywhere else in the Normandy theatre. It’s no wonder it took a lot more time and effort to take Caen which ended in the bombing of the City.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thank you! Americans don’t get to hear much about the British and Canadians sectors. Hopefully these videos will change that a bit. Feel free to share these videos and encourage others to do the same!

[@palerider4015]

@@TheHistoryUnderground will do JD. If you get chance I’m sure you find the following video of great interest....kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJO2ZXysoZ1ofbM Story covers action in Arnhem......very interesting . Best wishes

[@terrysmith9362]

21st Army Group faced 9 German divisions and 700 tanks whereas Bradley faced 2 German divisions and 200 tanks. Hence Caen was not taken inwith the timerable. By the way the Americans did not take St Lo similarly but that failure ignored by Hollywood historians

[@stevo3883]

@@terrysmith9362 Its straight ignorance to claim that hollywood ignores the American failures on D-Day. Americans didn't take St.Lo, because they were being massacred on Omaha Beach. Also, The Germans did not have 9 divisions defending Caen on D-Day, which was the timetable, so frankly your entire post makes no sense.

[@terrysmith9362]

@@stevo3883 oh dear yet another hollywood historian

[@nickjennings8757]

We visited the Normandy beaches and Caen three years ago. Around the American beaches you still get the ‘bocage’ experience, glad I wasn’t the nominated driver! 😂 to walk on the beaches or around places like St Mere Eglise, Pont Du Hoc (which is breath taking), Lion Sur Mer, Pegasus Bridge, and Caen is such a privilege. Being a Brit we don’t usually have much good to say about the French but hats off to them in how they look after and genuinely cherish these sites. For anyone else visiting Normandy it truly is a beautiful place with St Lo and Bayeux being absolute musts to see some ‘real’ history on top of all the D-Day stuff. You could spend a whole summer there and still not scratch the surface.

[@TA-wg9oi]

Thanks Nick. We had booked a Norway and Mediterranean trip for October last year from Australia. We included a week to do the Normandy beaches staying at Bayeux...unfortunately Covid changed all that but is still on our bucket list to visit and tour these beaches, museums and historical sites....

[@stevo3883]

St.Lo was a killing field for Americans. Absolute nightmare

[@judyrodriguez1525]

Thank you again JD for another great video. And it’s so awesome that you’re collaborating with Paul (and Eric too). I subscribe to WW2TV and I always thought you two working together would be great. And it is! 👍🏼

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! WW2TV is top notch stuff.

[@darkoflight4938]

Paul is giving an fantastically engaging report of what happened here. My soul is glowing with anticipation for the next one. Great job (again)!!!!!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! Paul is super knowledgeable about the battle. Got a lot more with him in future episodes.

[@TheFreebrid]

Great job as always ,the Brits fought just as hard as Americans maybe harder they had to deal with Hitler way longer than we had they almost lost there country to him, so this part on the invasion of Europe was a bit of pay back for those lads and I didn't know some of what you told also the range finders in that bunker was very cool and just showed how smart the Germans really were they just couldn't handle the fighting over freedom they knew they were wrong most knew that what they were doing was coming to a end but the Brits did what they had to, thanks once again for you're hard work on preserving history 😁😁🇺🇲🇺🇲🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@fasthracing]

God save the Queen

[@mickambler3151]

Thank you for covering the British side of d day m8

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

👊🏻🇺🇸🇬🇧

[@kevinthompson5312]

That was a great episode lots of information on this thanks for the great content just awesome

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

I appreciate that! Had fun putting this one together.

[@jared1870]

Thank you JD for posting another informative video on WWII history. And now I must take anxiety medication when watching your videos because nearly every time you say "don't bump my head," you bump your head. I've picked up the habit now. I tell myself to be careful not to do something just before doing it. I call it JDing myself.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Appreciate that! This is a part of the battle that definitely gets overlooked in the U.S.

[@nmelkhunter1]

Open field, no cover, prepared fortified positions and a motivated enemy. What could go wrong? God bless these brave, brave souls.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Exactly. Helps to understand why Caen was such a tough nut to crack.

[@michelehurt9258]

This was so educational, thanks for the history lesson.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you enjoyed it! I learned a lot making this one.

[@lordlorenzo5835]

Excellent episode, very informative. Thank you for posting this.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@johnpeddicord4932]

JD, another good one, also thank Paul from us viewers 👍👍👍

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

👊🏻

[@dougholck4276]

Thanks for a great video! I was unfamiliar with the story behind the Hillman Battery, so I learned a lot. And your camera work continues to be totally on point! Well done.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Appreciate that! I learned a lot making this one as well.

[@Jewgirl369]

Being an American Jewish woman and of German and Polish decent i am aware of how rare it is that my family survived! Thank you for keeping alive what occurred through out WW2 so that we may never forget!

[@stanleybuck4195]

Thank you for your great work. Many of us had fathers who fought at Normandy but never really knew the details. So your work showing us what happened is very worthwhile. Their sacrifices were extraordinary and should never be forgotten.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

🙏🏼

[@marctremblay8087]

That was excellent guys thank you so much for your video and narration. Really brings history to the front door.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks!

[@mamab4211]

Wow 😯!!! First an amazing story !!! Second great story teller!! Thanks again for another great video JD!! 💞

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

🙏🏼

[@daveblackburn5393]

It's nice hearing military history about great Britain. It's a different perspective and extremely interesting. Great Britain new Zealand Australia Canada are damn good allies. We are lucky to have them as allies. I thank them all for there service in wwtwo. Thanks for another awesome video. Thanks for sharing. God bless Dave blackburn

[@zegotashalom3881]

Thank you for preserving a part of our freedom and history, may we never get use to war. God Bless.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks for watching.

[@sumguyman8656]

Gah, I envy you 😆! To set foot on some of these places! Live that life buddy and keep these videos coming!

[@fredv7487]

Another awesome job as expected. Thanks and hope you are enjoying your time in France.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! Love it in France.

[@fredv7487]

@@TheHistoryUnderground While there try going off the beaten path to some of the rural villages and you might be able to run across people that where actually involved in the action.

[@UnwrittenSpade]

Ah yes......Alexander Pie.....the famous old Viking pastry chef! Man I am loving this series so much! Keep up the amazing historical work

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Ha! So glad that you're enjoying it.

[@idotroger88]

Such amazing history becomes tangible through your videos, and what great insight into aspects of those days that I didn’t know. Another great video, thank you for creating and posting these!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you like them! Thanks so much for watching!

[@margaretbay2421]

Outstanding documentary !

[@malcolmmorton989]

A wonderfully eloquent feature - keep 'em coming

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Appreciate it! You'll like WW2TV as well (link in description).

[@ChillPillDyl]

I wish the music you use was a Spotify playlist or something. It’s so inspiring and would be amazing to listen to when I study or am trying to de-stress

[@kurtbaker4078]

Thank you for a very informative video. I never knew or heard of this action. Stay well-Kurt

[@Wreckdiver59]

Just the condition of the bunker complex says a lot about how it was taken. A brute force attack with more armor and artillery support would probably have shown a lot more damage. Amazing they were able to take it as quickly as they did. Very interesting video, learned a few things today 👍

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Agreed. Definitely a place that the Allied underestimated.

[@eproctor8947]

In all the videos I have watched I always heard 'there was heavy fighting but the British were unable to advance toward Caen'. Now I can begin to understand what was happening and why they were held up. I realize now that there was a lot more going on than is told in many other presentations and for that I thank you for your work. Keep it up!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! A lot of what happened in that sector is misunderstood. Another big factor is that the bulk of the German armor was thrown at Caen instead of a the Americans.

[@simonphillips3329]

Thank you. It's worth remembering that Britain was 'war weary' by 1944. I'm proud of the part we played in the liberation of Europe but hats off to America for keeping us supplied throughout and obviously for the manpower and equipment that was needed. The 'special relationship' has pretty much gone now but it was 'special' then.

[@blackdogexcavator21]

Awesome to see what the British and hopefully the Canadians had to contend with during this campaign. You're correct that this part of the battle isn't very well known in the US. About the only thing we hear about is Monty's failure to take Caen according to the battle's time table. Now I know why. Thanks again for sharing some history and perspective.

[@TravelswithNick]

I can't believe you made it there! AMAZING! Must've been surreal to see that in person. Thanks for the info and great video!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Yeah, it was something else. Thanks!

[@grimmace9081]

Paul did an excellent job...great video

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you enjoyed it! Paul is a cool guy. His channel is a gold mine of information.

[@gandydancer823]

Thank you. My knowledge of the British contribution is limited at best. Very interesting please do more.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! I’m learning a lot too.

[@gandydancer823]

@@TheHistoryUnderground I am an Illinois native residing in Wisconsin, one thing I have learned while living here was the POW camps across the state and country. That would be an interesting History Travel for you.

[@colinearnshaw7725]

More Brits landed on D-Day than Americans. 73,000 American Army. 83,000 British Army

[@jeffreardon3969]

Amazing video, Unaware of these other efforts on the beaches of France in 1944. What amazing courageous soldiers. God bless every one of them.

[@faithandfreedom]

WOW! What a great documentary! Thank you! So much!💯

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

🙏🏼

[@KaoretheHalfDemon]

Thank you. Truly thank you for giving us a more in depth look at the British actions on d-day!

[@stevemartin5029]

Thank you for including Paul in this segment. What a clear and concise storyteller! I appreciate you also JD as always!

[@albrussell7184]

Good to start hearing more about British and Canadian beaches. As far as Hollywood is concerned D-Day was purely an American operation. For instance in the film 'The Longest Day', apart from the Pegasus Bridge assault, British beaches only feature for 13 minutes, and the Canadian beach Juno doesn't feature except for maybe 3 seconds in the strafing run by the German fighters.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Yeah, I'm hoping that this series informs people a bit more of what happened in the British and Canadian sectors. Hopefully, people are sharing them out so that more people can learn!

[@ToddSauve]

Don't forget about the pigeon who flew the wrong direction from Juno beach and was called a "traitor" for his efforts. Yes, I think Juno beach received a total of about 45 seconds of attention in "The Longest Day." 🙄🙄🙄

[@Bowruss]

Your presentations are unequaled my good man. Just fascinating and thrilling. Thank you for your chanell!subbed to Paul as well

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! And yes, WW2TV is top shelf.

[@marc-oliviermeunier5826]

Thank you for your informative and inspirational videos ... It's always a pleasure to watch your channel.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you like them! Thank you for watching.

[@osfirefighter]

Awesome video seeing the British side of Normandy

[@familyman3942]

I am so happy that I found your channel! Because of you, my wifes Christmas present is another 3 day trip to Gettysburg. We stayed at the Brafferton Inn. last year. Beautiful place!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Awesome! So glad that you're enjoying it. Love Gettysburg.

[@michaelwilts5349]

I love this lesser-known tidbit of major history surrounding the D-Day invasion! Thank you so much for your hard work to uncover these stories and present them in such an engaging manner.

[@1psychofan]

Another excellent episode-I learned a lot! Thanks JD! 🇺🇸❤️🙏

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you enjoyed it! I learned a lot as well.

[@johnholmes6897]

My one Granddad was a German paratrooper my other Granddad was an American paratrooper they both have their words of wisdom when it comes to war and I can't remember which one told me but one of them said no one should be criticized for not knowing how much water to bring to put the fires of hell out

[@joannam.9276]

I get firsthand accounts of all of this!!! I have a customer of mine who is 99 years old .who was in World War II!!!.. He tells me all kinds of stories

[@marypasco2213]

OMG!!!😲😲😲 RECORD THEM!!!!!!!!!! PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Oh my gosh! That would be amazing to be able to sit down and chat with him.

[@joannam.9276]

@@TheHistoryUnderground I’m the person that messaged you on ig and sent you some photos about a month ago…. He’s sharp and remembers quite a bit.

[@joannam.9276]

@@TheHistoryUnderground I know he told me his unit was the first unit in.

[@homercook1953]

I want to thank you for your wife and your children and letting you go to these places to show us the history World War II and the Civil War another history stuff appreciate it and especially for watching this and understanding what the British had to go through adjectives so I pray for you and your family and God God bless you and your family as you travel to these places sometime with your family but I know it is expensive but I know the Lord will bless you as you Journey on these Adventures because I know there's a lot of people can't be able to visit these places until next time heavenly father bless this family and keep them safe

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thank you for saying that. I'll pass the message along to them.

[@jvleasure]

Very cool. I always had a lot of respect for the brits👍

[@AmberPearcy]

I learned a lot, too. This was incredible and terrifying. Thank you!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you enjoyed it! I learned a lot myself while making this one.

[@TheHistoryWonderer]

JD, your videos are fantastic and they keep getting better. Keep up the awesome work your doing. Always look forward to another History Traveler video every week.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks!!!

[@davidbruns9263]

Another superb episode! I’ve always been drawn to the battle for Caen. Thank you

[@christopherreynolds8873]

Great video. I learned so much from this video. I am going to look up more information on sword beach

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

👍🏻

[@1psychofan]

I didn’t know what a hilman was, besides the car! Lol a control center for other batteries….helpful in my reading to know that!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Ha! Always learning.

[@claudestauffer3785]

I love your channel. One of my favorites. So informative and I really appreciate the spirit with which you share the history. Thank you.

[@michaelshank5900]

Another great video! Learned a lot. Thank you for giving us the lay of the land and making it all so clear. What would be some good books to read on the subject?

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! Appreciate that. "Normandy '44" by James Holland is one of the best overall treatments of the Battle of Normandy that I've read in awhile. It does a good job addressing the efforts to take Caen.

[@sanctifiedandsaved5298]

Excellent - the Longest Day only provides half the story - it's important to know the whole story beyond the beaches.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

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