25 June 1940
Germany occupies much of Western Europe
After the fall of France, Britain becomes the major launch base for future Allied operations in Western Europe.
Location: Western Europe
Timeline
D-Day Timeline
1 January 1943
Planning for a cross-Channel invasion intensifies
Allied staffs refine plans for the invasion, balancing strategy, landing craft, air power, logistics, and deception.
Location: Britain
24 December 1943
Eisenhower appointed Supreme Allied Commander
General Dwight D. Eisenhower receives command of the Allied expeditionary force for the invasion.
Location: Allied command
5 June 1944
Weather delays the assault
Poor weather forces the invasion to be delayed. A narrow forecast window makes 6 June possible.
Location: English Channel
6 June 1944 - After midnight
Airborne landings begin
British and American airborne troops land behind the beaches to seize bridges, disrupt movement, and protect flanks.
Location: Normandy
6 June 1944 - Morning
Beach landings begin
Allied troops land across Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword under naval and air support.
Location: Normandy beaches
26 June 1944
Cherbourg captured
Allied forces capture Cherbourg, though port facilities require repair before major use.
Location: Cotentin Peninsula
9 July 1944
Caen liberated
After weeks of fierce fighting, Allied forces enter Caen, a key objective on the eastern flank.
Location: Caen
25 July 1944
Operation Cobra opens the breakout
U.S. forces launch a major offensive that breaks through German positions in western Normandy.
Location: Saint-Lo sector
21 August 1944
Falaise Pocket closes
Allied forces trap and destroy large parts of German forces in Normandy, ending the campaign's decisive phase.
Location: Falaise
25 August 1944
Paris liberated
The success in Normandy helps open the road to Paris and the liberation of France.
Location: Paris