D-Day Fleet 1944, American Sector

This fully illustrated study delves into the composition, command, and actions of the US-led portion of the Normandy invasion fleet, from D-Day through the fall of Cherbourg. The D-Day landings and their aftermath were some of the most intricate and significant naval operations in history. With the target beaches split into US- and British-commanded sectors, this fleet embarked on a month-long mission to first assist the landings and then to protect, supply, and support the troops on the shore as they worked to expand their foothold in occupied Europe.

In this book, naval historian Brian Lane Herder, illustrated with 3D diagrams, photos, maps, and dramatic artwork, explains how the US Navy-led Western Task Force was formed and its operations off Normandy in June 1944. It details the fleet’s organization, assembly, and training, as well as intelligence and logistics, and highlights its vital contributions to D-Day’s success—from its exceptional minesweeping efforts to the aggressive gunfire support off Omaha and Utah beaches.

This book also covers the Western Task Force's activities off Normandy after the beachheads were secured, including the destruction of the American Mulberry harbor in a storm and the eventual capture of Cherbourg in late June 1944.

80 pages, softcover
Author: Brian Lane Herder
Illustrators: Edouard A. Groult