On D-Day in 1944, the Allies began the invasion of Northwest Europe, marking the beginning of the end of World War II. After more than a year of preparation a huge British, Canadian and American force crossed the English Channel aiming for a 50-mile stretch of the Normandy coast.

About 14,000 Canadians landed in Normandy on D-Day. Estimates vary, but there were over 1000 Canadian casualties, with more than 400 killed. These pictures of Canadians on D-Day show what the Canadians faced on that historic day.

Photo: Canadians Landing on D-Day
Gilbert Alexander Milne / Canada Dept of National Defence / Library and Archives Canada / PA-137013

More on Canada in World War II
Pictures of the Raid on Dieppe
Canadian World War II Posters
Canada and World War II Battles
Halifax VE-Day Riots