"An incredible degree of rugged and realistic training": the fourth infantry division's preparation for d-day/
Stephen A. Bourque, PhD
- 2024
The onset of war in Europe in 1939 interjected a sense of realism into the U.S. Army’s organization and training. Col. Herve Tribolet’s 22nd Infantry Regiment arrived on the shore at 0745 hours on 6 June 1944 and, as rehearsed, turned north. Besides occasionally directing traffic to clear the few roads in the marsh-infested area, he had almost nothing to do. When asked by subordinates for instructions, he told them to execute the plan as practiced. For Americans, the preparation began in 1940 as the United States expanded its military forces. The result was an efficient and productive assault on 6 June.