• PHOTO FINISH
ARRESTING IMAGES FROM THE ANNALS OF THE PAST
In a foxhole 1944
Since the launch of Operation Overlord – the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied Europe – on D-Day, 6 June 1944, the advance through Normandy has been slow, tough and tiring. Here, a US Army soldier tries to get some much-needed sleep in between the fighting near Bayeux, and the boots almost kicking him in the face show that he is not alone in the foxhole. Not only are the Germans putting up a stout defence, but the bocage terrain (characterised by tall hedgerows, ditches and embankments) hampers progress. However, with reinforcements and resources pouring over the Channel and coming ashore at the foothold established on the Normandy beaches, the Allies are able to capture the vital port of Cherbourg by the end of the month, with Caen following in July. The French capital of Paris, which has been under occupation for more than four years, is eventually liberated on 25 August.