The Longest Day Timeline ( Real )

military_invasion
June 6, 1944

D-Day Invasion Begins

Allied forces launch a massive amphibious invasion on the beaches of Normandy, France, marking the beginning of the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control.

military_planning
January 1944

Planning of Operation Overlord

The Allied forces plan Operation Overlord, the code name for the Battle of Normandy, involving detailed strategy and coordination among multiple Allied nations.

military_order
March 1944

Hitler's Directive for Defense

Adolf Hitler orders the German forces to defend the French coast against the anticipated Allied invasion with fortified positions and reserves.

military_deployment
Spring 1944

Build-Up of German Forces in Normandy

German forces strengthen their defensive positions along the coast of Normandy, anticipating the Allied invasion.

military_operation
June 6, 1944

Allied Airborne Operations

Allied airborne troops conduct night drops behind enemy lines to disrupt German communications and facilitate the beach landings.

The Longest Day Timeline ( Fictional )

preparation
June 5, 1944, Evening

Allied Preparations for D-Day

Allied forces prepare extensively for the invasion of Nazi-occupied France, coordinating land, sea, and air operations.

military_operation
Night of June 5-6, 1944

Nighttime Airborne Drops

Allied paratroopers and glider troops drop behind enemy lines in Normandy to secure key positions and disrupt German defenses before the beach landings.

military_operation
Early morning, June 6, 1944

Naval Bombardment of Normandy Coast

Allied naval forces begin heavy bombardment of German defenses on the coast of Normandy ahead of the amphibious landings.

military_operation
June 6, 1944, Dawn

Beach Landings Begin at Dawn

Allied troops commence amphibious landings on five beaches of Normandy: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword, facing fierce resistance from German forces.

military_operation
June 6, 1944, Midday

Capture of German Strategic Points by Allied Forces

Following beach landings, Allied troops push inland securing bridges, bunkers, and towns.

military_operation
June 6, 1944, Afternoon

German Counterattacks Against Beachheads

German forces launch counterattacks in attempts to repel the Allied invasion and contain the beachheads.

military_operation
June 6, 1944, Evening

Allied Forces Secure Beachheads and Advance

Despite stiff German resistance, the Allies consolidate their positions and begin the breakout from the beaches.