When the Allies reached the Normandy coast on D-Day, they began the greatest amphibious assault yet known in the history of warfare. But despite the element of surprise and their tactical advantage, the Allies were caught in bitter, bloody fighting with a forcefully resistant German Army. More than 400 illustrations, including rare archival material, bring to life this highly compelling account of those final, decisive days. Special features focus on winning weapons and the most critical moments in the battles. 224 pages, 100 color illus., 300 b/w illus., 8 1/4 x 11 1/2.