FRANCE
ENEMY PRISONERS, taken during the first days of fighting, awaiting transportation to England. During the first week following the invasion landings the Germans lost some 10,000 men as prisoners. The enemy forces that manned the static beach defenses were largely Russians and other non-Germans, but were under German officers. Of the German troops, many companies were found to be composed of men either under 20 or over 45 years of age. Many of these were of low medical categories and their morale was not of the best.
FRANCE
A MILITARY POLICEMAN studying French aboard a transport while waiting for the landing craft which will carry him to the beach in Normandy. In addition to handling informational and recreational activities of all kinds, the Special Services Division of the Army Service Forces distributed pocket-sized soldier guides to the customs and languages of the countries where members of the armed forces served. The Army, recognizing that the strain created by war must be counteracted by healthy diversional activities, arranged motion pictures and USO shows, and distributed books, magazines, and athletic and other recreational equipment to members and units of the armed forces.
FRANCE
CARENTAN. The approach to Carentan from the east is blocked by the Vire-Taute Canal. U. S. forces advancing to secure the bridge on the road from Isigny met with enemy resistance from the houses and hedgerows on the east bank and it was not until midnight of 10 June that the enemy was driven out and defensive positions were established by U. S. troops. Other U. S. troops moved along the Bassin à Flot and crossed the canal on 12 June, moving rapidly into the center of Carentan which by then was ringed by attacking troops. This trap was closed too late to capture most of the German defenders, who escaped to the south during the night of 11–12 June.