ORIGINAL FOOTAGE | Omaha Beach Assault Wave | WN60 and the German Defenders | Normandy WW2

In the early morning hours of June 6, 1944, the men of L Company, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, stepped inside their LCAs (Landing Craft Assault). They had been training for the invasion from the moment they arrived in the UK after fighting their way through North Africa and Sicily. They trained for the landings so often that the majority of men felt confident in their ability to face the enemy and win.
Unfortunately, their H Hr would be delayed and then enemy were not destroyed by the preliminary bombardment. The men of L Company would run ashore into the German fire.
In this video I look at the original footage taken on D Day and I take you to the location where it was filmed. I then take you to the German position overlooking this stretch of beach and see where the German were located.
If you enjoyed this video please hit the like button. drop me a comment and subscribe to the channel.
Omaha Beach: The First To Fall | Original Footage | Wn60 and the Germans Defenders | Normandy WW2
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[@nickdahlberg7505]

I just want to give you a heartfelt thank you. Both of my grandfather's received the medal of Honor, on my father's side and my mother's side, respectively. I love to be able to see exactly what they saw. I live in Illinois in the United States, and will most likely never be able to step foot there in person so, your first hand account is incredible and POV filming is awesome! Again, thank you so much for your hard work and filming this. Also as it is Christmas, Merry Christmas to you and yours. I'm sorry, I want to add that I really love the map overlays and trench overlays you do as well as the point of view positions and trench overlays. Maybe I'm the only one here, but as someone who studies war, I really appreciate that stuff and I know it takes a lot. So thank you for that as well!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Wow Nick you have made my day! What a fantastic comment. You must be so so proud of the legacy your family members have left behind. Do you mind me asking what their names are? I hope everyone who reads your comment gives you the respect it deserves. Thank you and Merry Christmas. This is the best comment I’ve received all year 🙏

[@nickdahlberg7505]

@@thehistoryexplorer Absolutely! They both unfortunately passed away before I was born. My mother's father's last name was Alheim (German heritage ironically) and if I remember correctly, his first name was Lou. He was in the army and subsequently was injured by shrapnel in the head. My mother told me he captured several Nazis single-handedly (I wish I could remember the exact number but, I believe it was 5-7). On my dad's side, my grandfather's last name was Schaefer. (I'm sorry I cannot remember his first name, I'll have to ask my dad). He was in the Navy and aided in capturing a u-boat earning him the award. I'm so proud of my family. I'm angry I broke the legacy and didn't go into the army as I intended to. Years ago, when I was a young man, my wife was pregnant with my daughter and told me if I joined she wouldn't be here when I came back. She told me she knew I'd want front line infantry and would die and she was scared which is why she issued the threat. Anyway, I can ask both my parents more details if you'd like? Again, I appreciate your hard work in your videos and I very much enjoy them.

[@nickdahlberg7505]

@@thehistoryexplorer Please forgive my ignorance. My mom's dad was the Medal of Honor recipient; my dad's dad was the highest navel award, which I believe is the distinguished service cross. I will confirm all my info. Sorry for the mixup.

[@ec-pyroblasko5841]

Couldn't have summarized it better than this gentleman just did thank you again

[@thehistoryexplorer]

@@nickdahlberg7505 no mixup at all. What a story and thank you very much for sharing. Happy New Year to you!

[@topturretgunner]

I am a Vietnam era veteran and son of a WWII Army veteran. Dad was part of an Army AAA unit assigned to Guadalcanal 1943-44. These guys were heroes to me as a young boy. It saddens me knowing that soon the last of these brave men will depart to their eternal rest.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It really is so sad. I wish I had known more veterans of WW2. I would also love to record the memories of the Vietnam veterans. What you went through seems like pure torture you have my greatest respect Sir

[@topturretgunner]

@@thehistoryexplorer I thank you very much sir. I never served in combat or any frontline service. I had to be careful working around running aircraft and stay alert around those . Dealing with citizens who disliked servicemen was something many of us endured. I had 2 cousins that were exposed to the defoliant known as Agent Orange and they suffered with many maladies that were induced by that exposure throughout their adult years. Be safe my friend. 🫡🇺🇸⚓️

[@MadAtMax.300Blackout]

First, thank you for your service. Secondly, I would love to talk with more vets of ww2 but they deserve their peace and rest. No man that served in ww2 should have to see what's going on today

[@infomercialwars]

Unfortunately Korea and Vietnam were the start of 73 years of blunders that'll lead to the destruction of the world eventually thanks to out of control intelligence agencies and industry

[@tommysonnier9848]

It's not forever. Read in Revelation - And the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. It's the truth of the bible too many don't realize. All who die their next thought will be being resurrected no mater how much time passes in between.

[@robertmason7596]

My Uncle was one of those brave soldiers in that first wave on Omaha Beach. He would never talk about it. He spent the rest of his life a peaceful man.

[@jtb5867]

My Grandfather was there as well. I'll always have great respect for that man

[@sekainiheiwa3650]

Because as wee see in the footage nothing happened there very special .

[@ec-pyroblasko5841]

Thank you to you and your family for that crucial military service on that day and after.

[@Shinuchiha_99]

My great grandfather was in the United States Army infantry and landed at Utah beach on dday June 6 1944 at 6:52am.. he was a sgt.. 23 years old… he also fought in the battle of the bulge where he got a Purple Heart and a bronze star for valor for pulling a wounded buddies half blown up body out of the fray and then going back and getting the rest of his blown up body.. he always sobbed when he told that story.. it’s like the poor man wore that hurt on his sleeve for the rest of his life.. but when my great grandfather met my father they were best friends instantly.. my great grandfather lent my father 10,000.00 to help him pay for his first house and told my father: “don’t you pay me back now sonny!!” My dad paid him 20,000.00 once he got more stable.. double what my great grandfather lent him and my great grandfather started crying I was there to here the phone call.. he said in earnest that: “Sonny, you are the first man to ever truly keep your word to me..” dude that in itself speaks volumes.. I miss that old stingy man every day 😌🙏🏽👼🪖.. rip great grandpa you will be missed.. he died in October of 09 at the age of 88

[@sekainiheiwa3650]

@@Shinuchiha_99 What a sad Western story... if my grandfather would land money to my father I would spit on his face at that same moment. What a tragedy of landing money inside the family. Horrific!!! ... and them being proud that my son didn't f.. me and paid me with interest. Jesus Christ what's wrong with your people !!!.

[@October-TE]

Honestly the fact that we can still go here today and see exactly where the footage was taken is amazing, huge respect to all the men who bravely fought and made the sacrifices they did

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It’s very special isn’t it.

[@denislacombe4103]

As a French Man i did appriciate your video,it's worthy!!! We the French we'll.never forget what the allies Americans English Canadians ,did for us!!! We are really grateful about this sacrifice!!! I m 69 years old i was born 10 years after the Landing! Thank you very much indeed!!! Stay safe ,God Bless! Denis From France...

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Merci Denis! I love France and I visit a couple of times per year…mostly to visit Normandy. Such a beautiful country. Thank you for your kind words of support 🙏

[@denislacombe4103]

@@thehistoryexplorer your video is excellent! I m waiting for your next one! Once again ! Well done! Keep.going! Denis...

[@Rosco-P.Coldchain]

So how come you screwed us over then in the fishing wars it was soon forgot then

[@denislacombe4103]

@@Rosco-P.Coldchain i'm.sorry i don" t know the matter? And i am not a fisher man !!!

[@Rosco-P.Coldchain]

@@denislacombe4103 how can you have not heard of it Dennis 🤔

[@alanhern17]

I'm so thankful cameras were invented to document what these men went through fighting in the most brutal war in human history, so we never forget. it's far too easy to forget after a few generations.

[@garyhill1050]

My grandfather landed on omaha with the first wasve of the first division that morning he was a seargeant at the time he abd 2 orivates were the only survivors from his boat of 30 men ! Ever since i was young my grandfather told me about the war and the things he did . Everytime i see this viseo i cry immensley it breaks my heart but this is what my grandad endured and all the other men that fell or survived that fate full day . Im glad to learn where this footage was taken . R.i.p. all to all those men that fought there and the bravery and sacrifice they endured . God bless you all my grandfather and all those there you are my biggest heros!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

What a legacy, you must be so proud of your grandfather. What a horrible thought that only two survived out of a whole LCT. Thank you for sharing

[@jahangirbaig7602]

Your grandfather must be a brave person. That was very difficult war. Lots of lives lost at that day alone.

[@Khaleesi_Of_Kittens]

Wow. Only 2 of 30 to survive is heartbreaking. I can't imagine what that would have been like to live through.

[@conqueror571]

I don’t believe you

[@carolineallen2285]

This almost takes my breath away, knowing what they were in for. So brave, so young. It's incredibly sad. My uncle was in WWII-not sure if he was in the D Day invasion, however he died in a Paris hospital on Aug 21, 1944 of his injuries. He was a POW. He lies in the Canadian War Cemetery in Calais France. Only 21 yrs.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you for sharing your personal story Caroline, I hope you enjoyed the video. I agree it’s so sad especially when you walk on the same location as those soldiers who fell there. It was a really moving visit

[@carolineallen2285]

@@thehistoryexplorer To walk in their footsteps would be incredibly moving. Almost surreal I would think. I honour all who fought. I never forget.

[@PanzerChicken69]

@@carolineallen2285 Hope it's comforting for you to know that we (Europeans) take enourmous pride in maintaining the graves of all boys and men that died on our soil. Theire sacrifice will never be forgotten. Thank you and your family and hopefully one day you will come and see his grave for yourself. Much love from the Netherlands ❤️

[@berniecom728]

It's sad that so many die and much more were injured and most of all having a coward x-president to call POW losers, I will not say he name, I too know some that were POW and when I hear this coward X-president call POW suckers and losers it makes me want to, sorry I won't say what I think. Sorry to hear of your brave uncle that fought for our freedom. RIP to all

[@rhett4060]

I believe if they would have had a paratrooper assault, behind Omaha beach things would not have been as bad as they were.....but U know all the generals thought the Germans would run for cover. ..😢

[@SloopJohnB91]

My grandmothers fiance was in the initial wave on Omaha on D-Day. I believe dog red sector. He survived the landings and Normandy campaign but was later killed in the Hurtgen Forest, age 22. My Grandmother would go on to marry another soldier after the war, My Grandfather who landed in Normandy July 1944 and served until war's end with Patton's 3rd Army. Thank you for breaking down this iconic footage.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you for sharing your story! Amazing. I’m glad you enjoyed the video

[@philliphall5198]

My Dad was with Patton 3 Army also

[@greighooper5295]

I'm.54 in 1984 a mate from school went on holiday to France, he found an empty cartridge on the beach, paper thin, no markings, on his return he gave it to me, it stayed in my box of odds and sods for years, the only distinguishable bit of the cartridge was the way the primer had been struck , not as a pin point but oval, one evening I did a search , the only gun to leave such a mark was a British bren gun, so either fired at the Dunkirk retreat or on one of the British beaches on D Day! Thought I'd share it

[@thehistoryexplorer]

What are the chances hey, that’s magical. Thank you for sharing

[@me5768]

My dad came ashore on that beach and survived the whole war. He was a great man miss you Dad. We’ll meet again somewhere sometime.

[@kelseywhitlatch173]

I have no clue how they made it across the beach and up that hill considering the massive pair of balls they all had to carry with them! The bravery is astounding!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

They were issued a wheel barrow to carry their balls

[@kelseywhitlatch173]

@@thehistoryexplorer shit I knew it had to be something with wheels because those things had to be huge!

[@jdw174]

Not to mention, they CLANKED!!!!!

[@Anuisgod]

You mean stupid. There's no way a sane person would run on that fully mined beach first waves were literally sacrifices.

[@myronmosley2167]

⁠​⁠@@Anuisgodto say what you just said is stupid. If you know anything about the assault, you’d know that the pre-assault barrage and aerial bombardment was a failure in that they pretty much missed their targets. Had that gone to plan, virtually everyone that was in those trenches would have been killed or gravely wounded and the assaulting force would have been more of a clean up crew instead of having to battle through a full strength defensive position. Even with an ineffective pre-assault barrage they still hit the beach and accomplished the mission when they very well could have hid behind the cliffs and other covered and concealed positions like cowards and waited for the Germans to come to them and kill them anyway. But they didn’t, they hit the beach realizing the pre-assault bombardment was ineffective due to the withering incoming fire, reorganized the troops that made it to cover and continued with the mission, which was to establish a beach head and secure the area for follow on missions and ultimately defeat the German military. To continue on when the mission isn’t unfolding as planned, the odds are stacked against you as a result, under the constant threat of almost guaranteed death and complete the mission is the definition of bravery.

[@stevesvoboda9816]

I used to be the trusted beer getter for my grandpa when my great uncle showed up. They both served in WWII & would talk more as the night wore on. Uncle George had it rough in Italy. My grandpa was a replacement so within the first two weeks. They were moving fast he said. Just kids saving the world. Awe inspiring.

[@absolutetuber]

One of my great-grandfathers was KIA as a pilot during WWII. If there’s an afterlife I hope I get to meet him. I think all veterans deserve a big thanks (not to pat myself on the back, being a veteran myself) but I truly admire these guys that fought in WWII

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I know what you mean. Thanks for sharing buddy. I hope you enjoyed the video

[@tommysonnier9848]

As the inscription said, through the gates of death they pass to their joyful resurrection. All will be resurrected from the dead as Jesus was. We will meet all these guys and what an honor it will be.

[@user-sp4gy7ko5l]

When has war been declared after WWII?

[@user-os5he2op7n]

Beautifully done! My grandfather, Pvt. Michael Oles, came ashore somewhere along Omaha Beach about 6 weeks later as a replacement, and joined the 28th Infantry Division's, 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment as a combat medic. He would see fighting along the Siegfried Line, followed by the Huertgen Forest and was finally captured by the Germans when his Battalion Aid Station was overrun on 17th December 1944 during the Ardennes offensive. He would spend the next four and a half months as a prisoner of the Germans at Stalag 9-B. Beautifully done video! I was equally as moved and awed by my 2 visits to the area. I just subscribed.

[@davidlavigne207]

Tough outfit that 28th Infantry Division. They put up a valiant defense during the Ardennes offensive. Thanks for sharing your Grandfather's story. I have always admired the "Bloody Bucket" boys.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Wow! What a story. He must have seen and experienced some terrible things. Thank you so much for your comment

[@karlkarlsson9126]

It always gets me when you see these old dirt roads, or the old passages that they used, knowing that for nature itself no time really passes, the landscapes was there before the war, during the war, and after the war, just peacefully observing history when men were killing each-other, so when you walk at certain places it could be just like the war happened yesterday, always so eerie but yet amazing to see.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So well said. That’s what I feel when I visit these places

[@karlkarlsson9126]

@@thehistoryexplorer Thanks a lot of this channel and videos, thanks for your time, it's one of the best ones I've seen so far. I've always felt a bit annoyed when other documentaries and channels only visits these places and stands on the beach pointing, instead of getting close up and actually give a first person perspective of how things went down. I have a new job coming up soon so I will definetly support this channel when I get some money. thanks again 🙂👍.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

@@karlkarlsson9126 thank you so much Karl, don't worry about using money! You support me by commenting and liking videos! Money is for beer

[@donwelch6612]

i spent dec1968-dec1969 in vietnam , 101st lz sally. i had numerous live fire drops from a huey into the a shau valley and i can tell you i don't see how these brave men walked on to that beach. truly our greatest generation. respects to all.

[@kb1996]

Gosh what heroes and most modern day Americans seem oblivious to what sacrifice was done!! This SHOULD be America's pride! LEST WE FORGET❤

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Well said! 👏

[@inkblack6958]

Nobody has forgotten. What a stupid comment.

[@carolineallen2285]

Hello, I had to add another comment. I just realized you are the same person whose shorts videos I watch along with my son of the War pictures, then and now. I have actually been brought to tears watching them. It touches me deeply, it's so sad. The music is perfect.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Brilliant! I’m so glad you enjoy those videos. They get me teary too but with tears of gratitude. Thank god for that generation and those who would fight for our futures

[@carolineallen2285]

@@thehistoryexplorer Exactly. I often think of ladies who were having their babies around 100 years ago now and how the sons grew up and fought--sons of both sides of the war. How sad they must have been when they went off to war and many never returned. My Mother told me that the only time she saw her Mother cry was when her son left for war. (He did return). Thanks for bringing the history to us. I love history and all who have come before us. Thank you again!

[@KhalDrogo76]

Great content. As an American there are many of us who consider this place holy ground...where so many American and British and Canadian boys gave their lives to help free western Europe from the Nazi grip. Much respect for you as you clearly feel the same way. Truly was the greatest generation of selfless patriots

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much for the kind feedback. Much appreciated

[@gazza2933]

With the greatest of respect to all of these men, I do think that the cameramen were taking immense risks. They certainly weren't carrying mobile phones. Thank you for posting this.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

This particular camera man was actually wounded while getting to the cliffs and continued to document the later waves landing. So brave. You can also see the contempt in the other soldiers eyes that they are being filmed at the time. Really interesting dynamic

[@gazza2933]

​​@@thehistoryexplorer Yes I've seen that contempt on the faces of British Infantry in WW1 footage. I think that it is perfectly understandable. 👍

[@Relayer56]

Very enjoyable video. I am a 67 year old veteran, son of a veteran. A cousin fought in the south Pacific. I visited (business) Europe about 15 years ago, but, regretfully, could not make it to Normandy beach. It's visions of the landing that go through my mind every time I hear the National Anthem. I want to go there so badly, but it's very unlikely that I will ever make it back. Thank you for giving us this tour.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome Sir. That’s an incredible legacy of service you have left behind. You must be very proud 🫡

[@roberthenry9319]

Agree with all of the comments below, and the comments are serious, respectful and very well done. This is an absolutely stunning and beautiful presentation of Omaha Beach. Like some of the commentators , I have also been to Omaha Beach. But even having been there, the experience does not equal this video. The camera and the audio here shows so much that cannot be appreciated walking the ground at Omaha Beach. The massive 6 mile expanse of the complex battlefield is very difficult to fully appreciate on site. The filming, editing, study and loving care put into this video are nothing short of historic art. It is very difficult to put into words how powerful this work is. It has great impact, and should be required viewing for serious students of WW ll history in high school, college and graduate studies for ages to come. Cannot thank you enough.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You’ve made my day. What a fantastic comment and thank you for your feedback. I’m so glad you enjoyed it and thought it worthwhile

[@tommysonnier9848]

What a gracious comment. Well thought and said. You are so right about this video. It's sad so many are not taught this RECENT history.

[@napierlines6977]

Never get over footage like this. Absolutely harrowing. Thanks Rob great video

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you for the kind comment. Really appreciate it 👍

[@InfiniteDetailing101]

You should see Ukraine trench war. That was nothing

[@moobaz8675]

Excellent. You really set out the situation from both sides. Those guys landing and running across the beach were just crazy brave.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the comment it helps KZbin promote the channel so more propel can see it. As I’m new I need all the help I can get 👍

[@user-pk5nn2fi5k]

Fascinating video! I'm visiting Normandy in September with my son and daughter-in-law. Looking forward to seeing this and so much more. The beauty is breath taking and it's hard to imagine so much carnage and destruction took place during that fateful battle in 1944.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That’s fantastic. You’ll have the most amazing time. If you’d like any tips of parking, access etc then please fire me an email 👍

[@MrGoldfinger911]

What an amazing video. My Uncle was in the Marine regiment that was in the first landing on Peleliu in the South Pacific and told similar stories. These videos bring tears to me eyes for these young men's sacrifice and bravery.

[@JohnWick-nn2cu]

Utmost respect to the Marines in the pacific theater. My grandpa was with the 2nd Marine Division at Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian and Okinawa. The horrors they had to endure were mind boggling. No furlough in England or Paris for them.

[@tonetriv]

Was here last month. Reversed - started at WN60 and walked down F1 draw to Fox Red and Fox Red. Hair-raising video and narration. Thank you!!! ❤

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much my friend. I wish I had met you there!

[@davidlavigne207]

I appreciated the footage you showed and the tour of WN60. As difficult as it is to realize the losses suffered by L Company, and so many other assault companies along Omaha Beach that day, I marvel that the defenses didn't prevent the assault from capturing and piercing the vaunted Atlantic Wall for not even 24 hours. The Germans really underestimated the will of the American, British and Canadian soldiers to take losses and keep up the attack. Your filming of the sectors of fire really makes the defenses come alive for an old infantry soldier. Thanks.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you for the brilliant comment and thank you for your service my friend. I have many more videos to come, to just hope I do justice to what happened here

[@woodrowpreacely7521]

The whole Normandy operation went exceptionally well EVERYWHERE BUT AT OMAHA. Just 10% casualties out of 155,000 landed is incredible for what they all accomplished!. Think it was fact the bombing run went too far inland is fundamentally why Omaha's defenses were so intact. (Would have never heard of old Heinrich Sverlow or Franz Gockel!). At Utah the bombing run went in low and wiped German defenses out so Utah was a cakewalk. Then compounded by tactical error DD tank commanders tried to land too far from the actual beach and so many foundered. Remember told DD commanders to land close to the beach and ignored it.

[@robdee81]

The young soldier who was hit and tried to get up and carry on broke my heart as i know those were his last few steps in this world. I try to imagine what was going through his head - a huge wave of adrenaline and fear mixed with a strong desire to live or confusion as he tried to figure out why his legs would not work properly......

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Terrible isn’t it

[@Cosmic-Wanderer]

Around 20,000 deaths Axis and Allied combined in the space of 3 days. Heartbreaking just thinking about it.

[@jimmyharmon2519]

I love it when someone posts videos about retracing the steps of historical moments in human history. It's like you're walking and seeing what those who came before you saw. Truly amazing, excellent footage mate👍.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much! That is exactly the type of videos I enjoy which is why I make them. So glad you enjoyed it

[@candyhr4152]

I wish they would have got to return to their families. They never grew old. I am forever thankful for their sacrifice ❤

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Well said 👏

[@bomberjoe3493]

thank you very much for this genuine footage we really appreciate your effort in collecting/making these videos.

[@MaddogCapt11]

Somber and respectfully done. I’ve been to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery twice. During my visits I had a lump in throat just thinking of the horror and heroism of those who fought and especially those who died. Your video captured some of that. The haunting music added to that feeling, as well.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you for the kind feedback. It really does make a difference. I have many more videos to come 👍

[@OTDMilitaryHistory]

Great video! Thank you for covering this footage and location with respect and reverence.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the brilliant feedback Brad 👍

[@ww3662]

This is the best commentary I’ve seen on the infamous d-day footage. Thanks for making this video. I have to see this with my own eyes.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much for your kind feedback. You’ve made my day

[@ww3662]

@@thehistoryexplorer Of course. I've been wanting someone to discuss the details of that particular clip that we see over and over for so long. I have found it particularly difficult to find solid information on it. The fact that you went up there and mapped it out was above and beyond what I was hoping for. Taking the route through the defilade provided by the cliff that we see many pictures of and up the dirt road was something I never expected to see. Seems like you are 100% correct on the locations. For some reason, I never considered that the fire the troops in the video were taking came from the WN60 area, but after seeing that brutal enfilade it provided, it makes perfect sense. Anyway, thanks again for making this video. As I said, your video has really convinced me that I have to make the trip over from the US and see this with my own eyes soon. It was quite surreal to even see you walk through it on a video, so I can only imagine actually being there. Looking forward to watching more of your content. Keep making these, please!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

@@ww3662 I really appreciate your comments. If you ever need some tips on how to get to these locations please let me know and I’ll gladly help. You’re going to have the most amazing time in Normandy if you visit.

[@ww3662]

@@thehistoryexplorer I'll probably take you up on that. Thanks! Do you mind if I get in touch with you via your email posted in your profile? I just have some very general questions at the moment. Looking at flights right now, actually.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Please do! I check all those emails, if you send it to there I’ll get back to you

[@paolowilson00091]

My grandfather served as a medic during the war. My dad never really talked about him much and I'm sure his dad never talked about his experience much either. Never got to meet him but I know he endured some scary moments .

[@michaelleegarden7258]

That was really breathtaking to have see the almost impossible for so many to comprehend what those people went through.

[@ricksmith5230]

My dad is 98 retired Colonel still alive he doesn’t like to talk about combat loves to talk about the people he met along the way 🇺🇸

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It’s all about the people!

[@Docchucklilchuck]

My Grandpa, would be 98 today if he was still here, 3rd wave, would also not talk about the fighting but would always bring up the wine, chocolate, and the French women. lol! God bless him…

[@thehistoryexplorer]

@@Docchucklilchuck he sounds like my kind of soldier 😊 God bless him

[@ricksmith5230]

@@Docchucklilchuck he still has a onion and French bread sandwich and French table wine 🇺🇸

[@user-sz7er7ok7p]

So many gave so much, their lives. I hold their memories up with pride and sadness. It is up to us to live our lives in a way that would make them proud and happy!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Well said 👏

[@skipintroux4098]

Without their sacrifice Hitler would have forced each country to be ethnically pure. Can you imagine the horror of the west if it hadn’t experienced mass immigration from the 3rd world and the building of countless mosques?

[@edloeffler9769]

My Dad landed on Omaha Beach in the third wave with the 299th Army Combat Engineers. He never said much about it, only to say he lost many buddies. Praise God, he did return uninjured physically, but mentally I know he hid many unpleasant memories.

[@user-bw8ny2ig7s]

I enjoyed this very much, lm ex army l have never served in a combat situation as there were no conflicts when l was there. I respect all past and present service men and women, keep telling these stories so that our children’s children’s understand what all these brave men and women stand for. Lest we forget.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you very much for your kind comments! It means the world to me. I’m so glad you enjoyed the video

[@davidwalls2363]

I think you’re wrong. There aren’t many out there as good as this. Great video as always.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That's very kind of you to say David. You've made my day 👍

[@T0n3man]

Thank you so much for putting this together. Seeing the perspective of these positions is truly eye opening. My father served during WW II but was in the Pacific. I am a US Air Force veteran. It is so important to have an understanding of these details and beyond. Thank you again.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome my friend. Glad you enjoyed the video. I hope to get to the PTO one day once I can afford it!

[@mannysanchez1054]

I served from June 1996- May 2004. Thank you for your sacrifices my fellow Veterans. Your path that your blood and sacrifices pathed for the future generations will never be forgotten.

[@marcosilva5634]

Sou brasileiro, Rio de Janeiro. Tenho um obsessão por tudo relacionado a Segunda Guerra Mundial, principalmente sobre o desembarque na Normandia, o Dia D. Sei que eu lutei e morri nessa batalha. Sempre ne emociono quando vejo esses vídeos e fotos desses heróis anônimos. Parabéns para os que lutaram pela liberdade da humanidade. Sei que voltarei um dia a esse lugar sagrado. Parabéns irmão, pelo seu excelente trabalho.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much for the kind feedback

[@gushbucket5998]

I spent a week in Normandy, I visited loads of places and museums but it just want enough time, I need another week there to visit this place amongst others, great video 👍🏻

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I know what you mean! I go as much often as I can

[@golic7123]

Thanks for this ! - Amazing research on your behalf and historical research Thank you - You guys are legends !

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome. It’s just me, no team. Although my wife does occasionally film for me when pestered enough

[@DeegsISG]

Fantastic to see this, I was in Normandy last year and have already paid the ferry deposit again for this year, travelling from Ireland and staying for 3 weeks this visit. I also want to do the then and now photos. I've been doing them for 10+ years now but only now doing northern France.

[@drmuller77]

Thank you for this video. I only seen documentaries. But juxtaposing the historical footage with filming the current state of those positions is really nostalgic and impactful! Stumbled across ur channel through shorts! Subscribed.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you for your kind comment and I’m so glad you enjoy the videos 👍

[@vespa150blf]

Don’t know how I haven’t seen your videos before. Brilliant video…

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you buddy, I have many more coming 👌

[@user-je8kq2cg6u]

I cannot imagine what these brave American soldiers went through. Some of them not older than 19 years old. We should never forget these brave men who fought and died for our freedom. Thank you from a British citizen

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Absolutely. Well said buddy

[@edthebumblingfool]

British sailors in the boats was this their 3rd or 4th trip? Thanks to all regardless

[@danw9464]

Not just American... 🙄

[@matrich1983]

You do realise the other 3 beaches took were not American also don't you? British and Canadian 👍

[@jwuk11345]

There were also British soldiers at Omaha (a unit joined the American forces) but this is a video about Omaha beach so not really relevant to talk about the other beaches@@matrich1983

[@airshowsbyjohno9459]

Great well made video,I have been on the D-Day beach tour and its truly fascinating and really makes you realise how brave these young men were.thank you for sharing and keep em coming 👍.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So glad you’ve enjoyed it and thank you for the kind feedback. Much appreciated 👍

[@pauljames1258]

what a great video the pictures and footage are absolutely haunting ,ive been to the beaches before but ,after this its made me decide to go back again this spring so much more to see and pay my respects once again

[@robertfenti3996]

They gave their young lives.....such a sacrifice.....

[@tamathalamb9193]

I was so lucky to meet a gentlemen from a local town that had served and was in the first group to storm the beach . Bless each and everyone involved f those who served and are serving. Our youth today would retreat and for fit .

[@JJordan1012]

Your video is very well put together and gives us a whole new perspective on what the soldiers went through. I truly can't imagine how terrified they had to be. It's gut-wrenching. R.i.p to all the lives that were lost.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you for the kind comment and feedback.

[@goochfitness26]

I appreciate your hard work and dedication to this video showing us what it looks like today. I’ve seen many videos about that video clip but not one of someone putting it all in one

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are so welcome my friend. Really appreciate the kind feedback 👍

[@stuk8540]

Very well presented video. I have subscribed and chucked onto the G-Armoured on Patreon. G-father was 55th Fld Regt RA, so Im always looking out for relevant GA videos. Keep up the good work.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much! I’m in the royal artillery myself. I really appreciate the feedback 👍

[@sherrickcampbell9054]

Fascinating ..can’t even imagine

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thanks for the comment. I hope you enjoyed the video

[@user-sz1dk4tw2o]

Very sensitive presentation. Thank you for taking the time to reveal the maps and locations. I visited the D-Day landing areas in 2016, but never in this depth. It is most certainly hallowed ground.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it! And thank you for the kind feedback

[@molassescricket6663]

I interviewed my uncle, George Sanza, about his experience landing at Ohma, for a history paper. What he described was gruesome. When the landing craft came in and dropped their door, instantly many men were shot. Others never made it onto the beach and died between the landing craft and the beach. Many more were gunned down on the beach. He described the sea as running red with blood, tripping on body parts trying to get up on top of the bluff. He said that he felt pure terror and he was scared to death, as he lay pinned down on the beach for hours, afraid to move, watching men getting shot and killed.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I can’t imagine. Terrible account. Thank you for sharing

[@waterpongo6975]

I'm a big fan Rob. Awesome video. Never been to that side of the beach but been to 62 and 70 ones

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That means so much, I’m glad you enjoy the videos mate 👍

[@greggriffin1]

WOW.....never have we seen this before, thank you

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I know this video has done the rounds but nobody has showed the position where the Germans were firing from at the Americans who landed on the beach. Let me know what you think of the video

[@greggriffin1]

you always have THE most info of any history channel on any platform, that is why all of us in our family always and I mean always never miss your content. We thank you very much. God bless, and for some personal info, I am a navy vet, my whole family for 5 gen are vets and 3 of our 4 children are vets and six grandchildren now serve in all branches of our military.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

@@greggriffin1 that comment has blown my mind! I’m serving myself and I use this channel to raise funds for veteran charities in the UK. Thank you so much to you and your family for the support. It means everything to me 🙏

[@birdman4541]

Thank you for this film. My great uncle survived the initial assault but was injured by grenade shrapnel. After healing he caught up to his group where he was fatally shot and killed during the end of the Battle of the Bulge. Buried in France. One day I will make my over to pay my respects. 🇺🇸 🇫🇷

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I’m so sorry to hear that. I hope you get to visit and pay your respects to a very brave member of your family

[@iisms1999]

People may have made and seen videos on this before but I've never seen someone visit Omaha beach before after the war and explain a load of events that happened. I love your channel and I think the fact you travel to these historic places to get first hand footage of what you're actually talking about is great! Great job man 😁

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much, that comment means the world to me. Much appreciated

[@gregcameron141]

Great job, very detailed and informative - you brought the history alive of this world-historical moment in WW2 on the Western Front.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you very much. I genuinely appreciate the feedback it makes such a difference

[@PanzerChicken69]

There's absolutely nothing wrong with not being a historian and showing historical sites on your own journeys. You could not have described it better. I've been on most sites you show here plus some and it never stops blowing my mind how much courage these men had to do good for humanity. May theire sacrifice not be in vain in these dark times. I liked watching this alot, nice tactical camera perspectives, you did good here, thanks.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you buddy, really appreciate your feedback 👍 I’m not a historian but I do have a MA in Military History. I try to use my military judgment to pass comment on events but I’m certainly no expert.

[@PanzerChicken69]

@@thehistoryexplorer I've subbed, looking forward to see what else you do. I reacted to your statement that others had done a better job describing the events. I disagree, you show exactly what made this beach so dangerous.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

@@PanzerChicken69 thank you very much 👍

[@Soniteq]

Amazing, amazing job! Did you film the super high shots with a drone? Professional production!

[@deanlacey3878]

Great video i went to that sight many years ago when it was all overgrown nice to see it has been cleared so we can see what it looked like,look forward to your next visit.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much. I hope I did justice to the soldiers who fought there 👍

[@crispycat4852]

Wow I'm delighted to find your video ,what a fantastic peice of historical research and also by doing so a fitting tribute to those brave young men Thank you for the time and effort that you have out into this! I am a WW2 History guide based for 18 years Paris where I gave In depth small or Private tours on the history of the occupation of the City and France So whilst that is my specific stomping ground my personal passion for WW2 history has took me all over Europe in the last 25 years visiting battlfield sites and cities in Germany connected to the war and rise of NSDAP Ive taken organised private tours with local guides who I want to support of course like in the Bastogne area or just explored a city or area on my own or with a friend wih the help of various sources , guide books ,maps etc like t we did at he Falaise gap But this caught my attention particulalrly because this is one of the exact areas I go camping in every year from Paris , at either the Hypocamp or Robinsins site to walk the particular area and then along the rest of the beach Westwards to Vierville and with a stop to rest then at the WN 72 with Its famous 88mm still in place of course . ( essential tour guide stop ] and an Ice cream and drink I get a lot of people on tours with me In Paris who have of course taken tours to the landing beaches or will be doing so , so with It being so acceesible from Paris I like to keep my hands in and Hands dirty if you like by visiting regularly And whilst I'm no "expert " accordingto my own standards ,having a good undertanding practically of the area is really important to giving context to the history of the final few months of the occupation of Paris Now happily I have found a new voyage "partner " after my old one left to return to Australia , my 11 yr old son who has accompanied me my last 2 trips and has an equally developing passion for bumkers , shell holes, and old Polish Navy Guns ! We take my little wood burner stove and cook on It as well which as you can imagine a 10 yr old loves doing , making fire, gathering and prearing all the different sized sticks we need for kindling and fuel I've shown him how to use cotton wool in little vaseline as tinder I always start my walks there with a visit to WN 60 high on the bluff with Its panoramic view of the entire beach and then down the bluff through that steep stony draw that L16 was attempting to open So I recognised It instantly at the beggining in the aerial view as' Ive walked through that shallow zig zag trench line and tobruks so many tines and took In those stunning panoramic views from it of the whole beautiful vista of the beach as It gently curves westwards. so unbeleiveable that so much carnage took place there And then seeing you standing amongst the the shingle at the bottom of the bluff as you walk East in front of what I believe Is WN 61? I can't tell you how great It is to see this knowing the area so intimately Last year because I had back surgery and camping was out for a while so we hired a mobile home at a big camp site the other extreme of the landing beaches next to Ouistreham and a 15 minute walk from Pegasus bridge This year though I'm eager to include a visit to Grandcamp and the huge Maisy Battery area whose discovery and CONTINUED excavation over the last 20 years of course has led to an ongoing controversy on the whole success or failure of Allied intelligence in the area and questioned the whoe narrative around pointe du Hoc mission and Its significance , Thanks again! History is awesome

[@thehistoryexplorer]

What a fantastic comment and thank you for sharing! You’re right, history is awesome! I’m heading back next month and for the first time I will take my son who is 12. I hope he enjoys it too!

[@priceyt3622]

Imagine u just arrived and u did not even get a chance to fire a single bullet and u died already

[@Winterfellen]

Craziest thing about that shot is those men are getting killed and a few feet away others are watching them from behind cover and standing straight up as if nothing is happening.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It’s mad isn’t it. I can see why so many on here have commented that they believe the footage isn’t real

[@CHESTURCH]

What a good job you've done with this video. Can't even imagine what it was like for them arriving to those beaches after that long boat ride

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you very much! So glad you enjoyed it

[@roymeadows1708]

My Grandad died serving on HMS Ajax in WW2, He was Stoker Petty Officer Joseph Simpson and I couldn`t be prouder of his service to this country, God bless you grandad

[@lesseirgpapers9245]

What country are you talking about? The United Satan States?

[@ohdehhan]

That's the most harrowing intro to a d-day video I've seen. Very well done! The trenches have obviously eroded alot, what kind of depth would they have been originally?

[@thehistoryexplorer]

There are pictures of them and they appear no more than 4-5ft. Thanks for the comment I really appreciate it 👍

[@grimreavers]

Pure heroes , warriors all ...RIP😢😢 real men who were focused and determined no matter what the odds

[@dboyyarris4811]

Brilliant my son was here on a school trip about two months ago he will never forget it.

[@RobertEHunt-dv9sq]

Excellent video. Thanks for posting. I was there about 12 years ago and I still have vivid memories of that trip. Need to go back again. God bless and take are of those on both sides who fell fighting for their countries.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You’ve got to go back!

[@RemixN007]

Crazy to think that he did all that training, put-on brand new clothes and equipment, and then died as soon as he gets on the field without even firing a single shot.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Wow I never thought about that. Horrible isn’t it. Poor soul, may he rest in peace

[@rich1958]

Meanwhile today kids protesting about pronouns.

[@scotttyson7970]

Yep

[@scotttyson7970]

Close the Borders forever

[@philby27]

It was the exact same intolerance and bigotry of people like you two ☝️ at the heart of Nazism, which those brave warriors of WW2 went to crush. I guess that irony is lost on you though. Your fear of things you don't understand is not due the words and actions of young people. It's your small mindedness.

[@KHW1957]

Crybaby.

[@anthonyryan6716]

These kids are so dumb these days they don't understand during world war II on the average day a thousand people died we and the enemies were stacking bodies to the sky

[@uPSIDEdOWN577]

Visitors today say you can still hear a faint voice repeatedly saying “get off the beach!”

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It’s definitely eerie there

[@michaeltaylor8835]

The best D Day documentary I have ever seen.Well narrated great camera work and atmosphere was amazing. Subbed

[@billfoster7951]

War has always fascinated me. How do so few convince so many to go and die?

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It’s a strange human phenomenon

[@adaboy4z]

One of the most heartbreaking scenes. Those two young men running up the beach only too lose their lives right off the boat. Where they blessed not to endure the entirety of the war.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It’s very sad footage, young men their lives taken on that beach

[@billveronese8477]

I’ve visited Pointe du Hoc and the western end of Omaha, as well as the cemetery. Astounding and moving! The trenches are all around, but the analysis of this position explains so much.

[@skeltane]

Breathtaking is all I can say. Such adversary. Yet they still moved forward. My Grandfather was in the Pacific Theater. Wounded twice. Have a picture of him standing in a downed ZERO. Just awesome. He once told me, "I just knew I wasn't coming home. Then it was over. And damned if I didn't make it." Always made me chuckle. I miss him a lot.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much for sharing your story and thank you for the kind comment. I’m glad you enjoyed the video. You must be so proud of your families heritage during WW2

[@SpAzZzZz_]

I live in omaha, never seen this beach. We must be in the simulation

[@ppumpkin3282]

I wonder if was really necessary to carry those big packs during an attack. First fight to get a landing then worry about your sleeping bag, etc.

[@ec-pyroblasko5841]

Thank you for covering the story of Omaha Beach where my grandfather served in the army Air corps and was active on D-Day while not at Omaha I'm still very proud and I appreciate you doing this for all of us who don't have the means or the time to visit these amazing an historic sites. Thank you again. Tucson, Arizona USA Resident Tech sgt. Army Air corps Gonzalo Palacio

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much for your kind feedback. Really appreciate it

[@69mjar]

Would love to make this a bucket list trip. Gives me chills.

[@kaa13]

On the same day , my father was around Rome that fell in Allied hands on June the 5th. He was heavily wounded in action by grenade, two and a half month later in Southern France during the first day of the Battle for Marseilles. By the way, on the footage showing the poor soul killed by MG fire, one near him is already wounded and try to get up again on his feet and would have been sadly seen falling on his back if the footage would have lasted one more second.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Yes the footage is so terribly sad. The full version is shown later on in the video. I hope to visit Italy this spring to film a series and get some then and now pictures

[@dominicjohnson8427]

Imagine the fear felt by the soldiers when hearing the German mg42 machine gun and also the fear of the German soldiers as they quickly began to run out of ammunition as the soldiers advanced

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Overwhelming odds. The Germans were doomed from the start. I cannot imagine the terror being in that landing craft though

[@starlightsign8666]

Incredible insights into the difficulties faced, great work! Subbed ✨⭐️🌟

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Awesome, thank you! Glad you enjoyed it

[@mickeymouse-xr9gy]

Awesome work. Lest we never forget. So many young people today seem to have forgotten the importance of history.

[@josephmccann4143]

That has be one of the most viewed pieces of D-Day footage. I have always wondered who those men were that fell on the beach. It would be very nice to know their names.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It’s been narrowed down to a likely 30 soldiers. Believed to be L Coy 16th Infantry Regiment

[@erk6565]

I have watched the moment when that young soldier took his final step so many times over the years and have always wanted to know if it was possible to find out who he was. I can't be alone in this and I think that if you made a video about the 30 soldiers in that list, it would be a great service to the memory of whoever that poor man was. Sort of like a tribute to the unknown soldier, only with some sense of who this particular unknown soldier might have been. If making such a video would be too difficult or time consuming to resarch or doesn't fit the style of your channel, perhaps you could add some more information about the 30 souls from L-Company in the description so we can at least have a better sense of who he might have been. Either way, it's amazing to have just a sense of where those moments were filmed and the probable regiment he was with after all this time, so thank you for the video and your comment.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

@@erk6565 sorry to send you down a rabbit hole but by L COY I meant L Company! I think you have a great idea here and it’s something that would make a brilliant book. The issue is you’d always have someone say it was X Coy or Y Coy and dispute the research. Finding a list of all those KIA or WIA in Fox Red is the place to start and work down from there

[@erk6565]

@@thehistoryexplorer Ah... that's very different. My mistake as I didn't know that COY was the military abbreviation for Company until 5 minutes ago. It's still cool to know his regiment and the Fox Red location. I love a good internet rabbit hole, so I'll nose around a bit to see what I can find since I at least have a starting off point. The fact that it's been narrowed down to a possible 30 soldiers suggest that this has been researched many times over the past 80 years and that we'll never know who he was, but it would still be nice to read a list of names that was likely to include his. I'll edit my original comment to make sure I don't confuse anyone who might bump into it and start hunting for Larry, Leonard and Leroy Coy for several days like I just did. :)

[@thehistoryexplorer]

@@erk6565 the army loves a good abbreviation!

[@edwardcooper5479]

Always imagined that the German gun positions were closer to the beach than what you’ve shown but obviously no less deadly for the poor Americans trying to get off the beach, starting to think about paying a visit to see for myself where a lot of brave men sacrificed their lives for generations of people like myself.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It really isn’t that far but the camera perhaps makes it look further. Approximately 250m from the trenches to the shore. If you do plan on going please send me an email and I’ll gladly help with some tips on parking and access for this area of the beach 👍

[@shirleydenton4747]

My dear Dad served mostly in France. I should be more knowledgeable, but he rarely discussed the war. I still cannot learn all of this, but apparently three ships loaded with Americans were crossing, I think, the English channel when one was sunk. He was in one that did not sink. He just did not talk about it, and even as a child I was hungry for everything about the war and his experiences. He did say once he never thought he would make it back home. Edited to add his best friend, Edgar Pettrey, from KY died, and Dad kept the photos and wrote to his Mother. I still have a letter from Edgar’s mom to my dad, telling what Edgar was like. Edgar has no known family I can find to give the photos and letter to.. He was cut down as a young man, and never given a chance to live. I am so grateful to these men.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Such a beautiful comment, thank you for sharing. many many veterans did not want to talk about what had happened to them until their later years. I wish I had had the opportunity to talk to more veterans

[@Rusty_Gold85]

Do write in pencil what you know about the man on the back of the photo so his life doesn't disappear when the info goes with you ?

[@KaoretheHalfDemon]

Can we just acknowledge the balls on the guys who went ashore with CAMERAS during a landing operation that had an uncertain chance of success.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

💯