“Embarking On Great Crusade” -Eisenhower

Northern Advocate, 7 June 1944, Page 4

“Embarking On Great Crusade” -Eisenhower

LONDON, June 6

General Eisenhower has issued the following Order of the Day to each individual in the Allied Expeditionary Forces: “Soldiers, sailors and airmen of the A.E.F.. You are about So embark on the great crusade to which we have striven these many months. The world's eyes are upon you. The hopes and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you. In the company of our brave Allies and brothers-in-arms on other fronts, you will bring about the destruction of the German war machine, elimination of Nazi tyranny over the oppressed peoples of Europe and security for ourselves in a free world.

“Your task is not an easy one. Your enemy is well-trained, weil-equipped and battle hardened. He will fight savagely, but this is the year 1944. Much has happened since the Nazi triumphs in 1940 and 1941. The United Nations have inflicted upon the Germans great defeats in open battle, man to man. Our air offensive seriously has reduced their strength in the air and their capacity to wage war on the ground. “Our home-fronts have given us overwhelming superiority in weapons and munitions of war and placed at our disposal great reserves of trained fighting men. The tide has turned. “Free men of the world are marching together to victory. I am full of confidence in your courage, devotion, duty and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full victory. Good luck, and let us all beseech the blessing of Almighty God upon this great and noble undertaking." The order was distributed to assault elements after embarkation and read by appropriate commanders to all ether troops in the A.E.F.

In Conjunction with Russia

Broadcasting personally to members of resistance movements in Europe from Allied headquarters, General Eisenhower said: “The landing on the coast of France is part of a concerted United Nations’ plan for the liberation of Europe made in conjunction with our great Russian allies. The hour of liberation is approaching. Continue your passive resistance. Wait until I give you the signal to rise and strike the enemy. Until then, I call on you for the hard task of discipline and restraint.”

Specially addressing the French people, General Eisenhower said: “I shall do all In my power to mitigate your difficulties and hardships in this opening phase of the campaign. Great battles lie ahead.”