The History of the Twentieth Century 432 The Longest Day I
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Jan 11, 2026 The podcast dives into the lead-up to D-Day, sharing how Allied forces prepared for the critical Normandy landings. Discover the flaws in the German Atlantic Wall and how Rommel's absence influenced defense strategies. Hear about the elaborate airborne operations, including glider landings and the chaos faced by American paratroopers. The podcast also highlights crucial engagements in Saint-Mère-Église, local civilian interactions, and the harsh realities of wartime brutality. It sets the stage for a memorable and pivotal moment in history.
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Apparent Strength Masked By Fragmentation
- German forces in the West were numerically large but fragmented and poorly allocated against an invasion.
- Hitler's control and fortress strategy diluted Rundstedt's effective field strength and mobility.
High-Ranking Wedding Amid Impending Invasion
- Hitler attended Gretel Braun's wedding and partied at the Berghof on June 3, 1944.
- The celebration took place while everyone knew an Allied invasion was imminent.
Normandy Held By Weakened Units
- Many top German units and best troops were tied up on the Eastern Front and in garrisons.
- Normandy defenses were often second-rate formations, reducing their ability to repel a major amphibious assault.