About Us

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 Welcome to D-Day History! Our page is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories, events, and significance of D-Day, the pivotal moment of World War II that marked the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany.  On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched the largest amphibious invasion in history on the beaches of Normandy, France. This operation, known as D-Day, was a turning point in the war and played a crucial role in liberating Europe from Nazi occupation. At D-Day History, our mission is to: Educate : Provide detailed accounts of the planning, execution, and aftermath of D-Day, along with the personal stories of the soldiers who fought bravely. Remember : Honor the courage and sacrifice of the Allied forces and commemorate the lives lost in this monumental battle. Engage : Create a community where history enthusiasts can share insights, ask questions, and discuss the impact of D-Day on modern history. Through photos, articles, videos, and personal stories, we aim to bring history
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The Courageous Crew of T-26E3: Pioneers at the Bridge at Remagen

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 In the final days of World War II, the crew of a T-26E3 tank from Company A, 14th Armored Battalion, 9th Armored Division played a pivotal role in one of the most significant operations near Vettweiss, Germany. It was March 1, 1945, and the Allied forces were relentlessly advancing towards the heart of Nazi Germany. Among these brave soldiers was a crew that would soon etch their names into history with their valor and fortitude.



The T-26E3, a formidable new tank model, was manned by a team of highly skilled and dedicated soldiers. Under the command of Captain James "Jim" Reynolds, the crew consisted of Sergeant Tom Hayes, the gunner; Corporal Steve Mitchell, the loader; Private First Class Robert "Bobby" Johnson, the driver; and Private Eddie Baker, the assistant driver and bow gunner. Each member of this crew had honed their skills through intense training and harrowing battles across Europe.


On March 1, 1945, near the small German town of Vettweiss, the T-26E3 crew faced a formidable challenge. The landscape was dotted with enemy positions, and the advancing Allied forces had to navigate through well-entrenched German defenses. The crew's mission was to support the infantry by providing armored firepower and clearing a path through enemy lines. Captain Reynolds, known for his tactical acumen, devised a plan that would exploit the T-26E3's strengths to the fullest.


As they advanced, the crew encountered a heavily fortified German position. Sergeant Hayes, with his sharp eye and steady hand, targeted and eliminated enemy machine gun nests while Corporal Mitchell deftly loaded the high-explosive rounds. Private Johnson maneuvered the tank with precision, dodging incoming fire and ensuring they stayed on course. Private Baker kept a watchful eye, ready to engage any threats from the front.


Their coordinated effort paid off. The German defenses crumbled under the relentless assault of the T-26E3. The crew's determination and expertise allowed them to punch through enemy lines, paving the way for the infantry to advance. Their actions near Vettweiss were a testament to the effectiveness of the T-26E3 and the skill of its crew.


A week later, on March 7, 1945, the crew of the T-26E3 found themselves at the forefront of another historic moment—the capture of the Ludendorff Bridge at Remagen over the Rhine River. This strategic victory allowed the Allied forces to establish a crucial foothold in Germany, accelerating the collapse of the Nazi regime. The bravery and quick thinking displayed by Captain Reynolds and his crew during this operation were instrumental in securing the bridge intact.


The capture of the bridge at Remagen marked a turning point in the war and highlighted the indomitable spirit of the 9th Armored Division. The crew of the T-26E3, with their unwavering courage and exceptional teamwork, embodied the tenacity and heroism that defined the Allied victory in Europe.


In the annals of history, the story of the T-26E3 crew stands as a tribute to the bravery of the soldiers who fought and triumphed against overwhelming odds. Their legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom and peace.

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