 The 70th anniversary of the invasion of Normandy will be commemorated by many Navy commands throughout the fleet and around the world, June 6th through the end of August. During the sea-based assault, codenamed Operation Neptune, the fleet bombarded the beaches to provide cover for the troops headed ashore. On D-Day, June 6th, 1944, Allied forces conducted landing operations at 6.30 am, the turning point for their victory in the European theater of World War II. This was the largest seaborn invasion in history. The Normandy Coast was divided into five sectors, Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword Beaches. The courage and bravery shown by Allied troops that day contributed to the fall of Nazi rule in France. More than 1,000 sailors and Allied troops gave their lives that day. To learn more about Operation Neptune or World War II, visit the Naval History and Heritage Command website. From the Defense Media Activity, I'm Petty Officer Jamia Cabredon.