Smashing Hitler's Guns

Smashing Hitler's Guns amplifies this famous D-Day story in three important ways. Firstly, D-Day expert Steven J. Zaloga analyzes why such a risky operation was required at all, detailing both the perceived and real threat posed by coastal guns based on previous Allied experiences from North Africa to Dieppe to Italy. Secondly, he provides a comprehensive account of all three of the Ranger missions on D-Day, including the often forgotten mission to destroy the guns at Pointe-et-Raz-de-la-Percée and the vital role the Rangers played in redeeming the stalled American assault on Omaha Beach. Thirdly, he examines several critical but often ignored subjects, such as the German side of the battle for Pointe-du-Hoc and the crucial role played by the Allied navies and air forces in overwhelming the German defenses. Tackling modern controversies and historic myths throughout, this is the definitive history of the Rangers on D-Day, exploring not only what happened at Pointe-du-Hoc, but why it happened. Book jacket.