The Americans at D-Day

The American Experience at the Normandy Invasion

By: John C. McManus

Narrated by: Joe Barrett

Length: 13 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

June 6, 1944, was a pivotal moment in the history of World War II. On that day the climactic and decisive phase of the war in Europe began. Those who survived the intense fighting on the Normandy beaches found their lives irreversibly changed. That day ushered in a great change for the United States as well, because on D-day America began its march to the forefront of the Western world.

By the end of the Battle of Normandy, almost one out of every two soldiers involved was an American, and without American weapons, supplies, and leadership, the outcome of the invasion and ensuing battle could have been very different.

In the first of two volumes on the American contribution to the Allied victory at Normandy, John C. McManus examines, with great intensity and thoroughness, the American experience in the weeks leading up to D-day and on the great day itself. From the buildup in England to the night drops of airborne forces behind German lines and the landings on the beaches at dawn, from the famed figures of Eisenhower, Bradley, and "Lighting Joe" Collins to the courageous, but little-known privates who fought so bravely and under terrifying conditions, this is the story of the American experience at D-day. What were the battles really like for the Americans at Utah and Omaha? What drove them to fight despite all adversity? How and why did they triumph? Thanks to extensive archival research, and the use of hundreds of firsthand accounts, McManus answers these questions and many more.

Impressively researched, engrossing, lightning quick, and filled with human sorrow and elation, The Americans at D-Day honors those Americans who lost their lives on D-day, as well as those who were fortunate enough to survive.

©2013 John C. McManus (P)2017 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

A Terrific Comprehensive Narrative on D-Day

I have always liked how Joe Barrett brings his characters to life and he manages to give a voice to as many of those who were there on D-Day as possible. This takes you from the planning itself and through the actual day itself from all of the eyes - paratroopers, ground troops, navy personnel, airmen and the leaders.

There is a woven narrative from John C. McManus that brings to light horrible details and moments of true valor that gives the listener perspective. If you enjoy the World War II genre and time period, consider this account. You gain perspective of how normal people were involved in the horror of war and some never to be heard from again. It's been romanticized so much, but this seems much, much too real. And I would imagine it was. Great audiobook.

A Nice Little Read

A nice little read about various aspects of the Normandy landings on June 6, 1944. Some new first hand accounts and some you likely have heard or read about before.

D Day In Remarkable Detail

Everything you ever wanted to know about the various components that collectively is what we call D Day. No sugar coating the mistakes that cost many lives & the many stories about the REAL HEROS that Never got the credit they DESERVED !

A good general study

A good overall study of the US contribution on D Day. it's worth a listen.

Graphic

The story really makes you see what these men dealt with, you can imagine yourself being there by the way it was written.

amazing story about amazing people

Great job planning all the areas with pieces to an amazing time in history fought in one by amazing people.

great book

this is a great book. It shows what America had to do during the second world war. Lots of good information about D day

Awesome

loved it one of the best D Day historical accounts I have had the opportunity to find.

The Greatest Generation

Was great because they killed Nazis by the tens of thousands. Hopefully our generation will stand up the new, rising Nazi like fascism from the right wing in the same way when the time comes.

Account of d-day preparations and initial action

Narration is clear, slightly gravelly, which is suited for this material, just a bt too slow, but otherwise just fine.

This account includes many details poignantly imparting a sober appreciation of the feelings, moral, and camaraderie of the moment.

Recommended.