The forgotten unit came ashore at Utah Beach on D-Day, suffering heavy losses in the hedgerows before closing the Falaise Pocket and invading Germany.

On the perilous morning of June 7, 1944, just hours after the initial D-Day landings, the Navy transport USS Susan B. Anthony fell victim to a German mine off Utah Beach. The ship, a vital artery for the Allied invasion, quickly lost power and succumbed to the sea, becoming the only large troop transport lost during the D-Day landings. This catastrophic event underscored the immense dangers and unpredictability faced by every soldier destined for the shores of Normandy, including the men of the 90th Infantry Division. Often overshadowed by other legendary units, the 90th Infantry Division, known as the "Tough 'Ombres," landed at Utah Beach amidst this very chaos. Their baptism by fire was particularly brutal. Initial reports painted a grim picture, with the division struggling significantly to gain traction against fierce German resistance in the dense, claustrophobic hedgerows of Normandy. These labyrinthine earthen banks, overgrown with thick vegetation, transformed the French countryside into a deadly maze, ideal for entrenched defenders and a nightmare for advancing infantry. The 90th suffered heavy losses, battling not only the enemy but also internal disorganization and a demoralizing string of setbacks that led some to suggest the unit should be disbanded. Yet, from the crucible of combat, a remarkable transformation began. Under new, decisive leadership and fueled by sheer grit and resilience, the "Tough 'Ombres" started to find their footing. They learned to adapt to the unique challenges of hedgerow fighting, slowly but surely turning the tide. Their journey from a unit on the brink of collapse to one of the most formidable forces in the European theater is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the American soldier. Their true mettle was forged and proven during some of the most critical engagements of the war. The 90th Infantry Division played a pivotal role in the ferocious battle to close the Falaise Pocket, a strategic maneuver that trapped and decimated a significant portion of the German Seventh Army and Fifth Panzer Army, effectively sealing the fate of German forces in Normandy. This heroic effort contributed immensely to the Allied breakout and accelerated the advance across France. Their relentless drive did not stop there. The "Tough 'Ombres" continued their arduous march across Europe, participating in the Lorraine Campaign, enduring the bitter cold and fierce fighting of the Battle of the Bulge, and ultimately crossing into Germany. They were instrumental in piercing the Siegfried Line and liberating concentration camps, leaving an indelible mark on history. The story of the 90th Infantry Division is a powerful reminder that even amidst the gravest challenges, courage and perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements. Their journey, marked by an initial struggle and a triumphant resurgence, exemplifies the resilience of those who served. Their sacrifices and successes, often overlooked, are a vital part of the D-Day legacy and a testament to the unwavering spirit that secured victory and liberty for generations to come.