Today in World War II History—June 8, 1944
US 2nd Ranger Battalion at Pointe du Hoc after relief on D+2 (June 8, 1944); American flag had been spread out to stop fire of friendly tanks coming from inland. Some German prisoners are being moved after capture (US Army Signal Corps photo: SC190240)
80 Years Ago—June 8, 1944: In Normandy, British and US forces link near Port-en-Bessin.
The US 2nd Ranger Battalion at Pointe du Hoc is relieved by forces from Omaha Beach. (Read more: Tour of Pointe du Hoc Part 1 and Part 2)
RAF first uses the 12,000-lb “Tallboy” bomb, destroying a train tunnel in Saumur, France, on the only north-south rail line in the Loire Valley, impeding German reinforcement of Normandy.
On the Adriatic coast of Italy, the British advance after finding the Germans have retreated.
Bridge over Loire River at Saumur, France (US Air Force photo)
