Landing Beach
Sword Beach
The easternmost beach, assaulted by British forces aiming toward Caen and linking with airborne troops near the Orne.
Forces landed
Primarily British 3rd Infantry Division, commandos, and specialist units, with airborne forces holding bridges inland.
Main objectives
Secure the eastern flank, advance toward Caen, and link with airborne troops at Pegasus Bridge and nearby crossings.
Outcome
The beach was secured, airborne links were made, but Caen was not captured on D-Day.
Casualty note
Casualty estimates vary, especially when counting commandos and attached units.
What happened here?
Sword saw British infantry, armour, and commandos land on the eastern edge of the invasion area. The advance inland met resistance, including armoured counterattack.
Why it mattered
Sword protected the eastern flank and connected the sea landings with the airborne bridgehead around the Orne and Caen Canal.