In the early hours of June 6, 1944, the Allied forces began the invasion of Normandy. Geological investigations played an important role in the success of D-Day.
of the coast and beaches, showing the different sediments deposited there by waves and marine currents. In fine-grained sand and mud, heavy equipment and soldiers can get stuck, making them an easy target for the German artillery. Coarse-grained pebbly sand can limit the maneuverability of tanks, needed to overcome the defenses of the shore-line.
Between Le Havre and Cherbourg the geologists found beaches with just the right sediments. The medium-grained sand here reflects the rocky outcrops of Paleozoic metamorphic rocks and sedimentary rocks of the Permo-Trias found further inland. The sand is composed mostly of grains of quartz and feldspar, transported here by rivers and marine currents, and limestone and shell fragments, resulting from the erosion of the sea-bound cliffs.
The landing of the infantry was accompanied by heavy bombardment to create a breach in the coastal defences. One of the most strategically important locations was Pointe du Hoc, a rocky peninsula overlooking Omaha Beach. The craters left there by the bombs and grenades are still visible today. In 2006, geographers Joseph Hupy and Randy Schaetzel introduced the term
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