Pointe du Hoc initial landing to Midday 6 June 1944

Situated on an outcrop between Utah and Omaha beaches, Pointe du Hoc was the site of gun emplacements and a group of casemates, which acted as a vital observation point for defensive positions firing upon the nearby beaches. American Rangers were tasked with ascending the cliffs to reach the defensive position at the top after being dropped off by amphibious vehicles, although half were lost before the attack could begin. Under covering fire from naval forces they ascended the cliffs using grapples and ladders. Upon reaching the top of the cliff it became apparent that the guns expected to be housed within the casemates were just decoys. The Rangers moved to secure the outpost after suffering heavy losses and destroyed guns that were found further inland, all whilst sustaining continued fire from Germans. A call for reinforcements was denied as they had already been sent elsewhere, so a tenuous defensive line was held.