Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., age 56, veteran of World War One and Two, politician, notable businessman, and son of the President by the same name, the only U.S. general to land with the first wave of U.S. troops during Operation Overlord, died of a heart attack.
Roosevelt in Normandy. He was severely arthritic by this point in the war.
For gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty on 6 June 1944, in France. After two verbal requests to accompany the leading assault elements in the Normandy invasion had been denied, Brig. Gen. Roosevelt's written request for this mission was approved and he landed with the first wave of the forces assaulting the enemy-held beaches. He repeatedly led groups from the beach, over the seawall and established them inland. His valor, courage, and presence in the very front of the attack and his complete unconcern at being under heavy fire inspired the troops to heights of enthusiasm and self-sacrifice. Although the enemy had the beach under constant direct fire, Brig. Gen. Roosevelt moved from one locality to another, rallying men around him, directed and personally led them against the enemy. Under his seasoned, precise, calm, and unfaltering leadership, assault troops reduced beach strong points and rapidly moved inland with minimum casualties. He thus contributed substantially to the successful establishment of the beachhead in France.The U.S. 88th Division took Lajatico, Italy
Japanese-American soldier of 522nd Field Artillery, US 442nd Regimental Combat Team with a soldier of the Italian 11th Pack Mule Company, Castellina Sector, 12 July 1944.
The Red Army took Idritsa.
Japanese POW broadcasting in an effort to bring Japanese troops in caves out to surrender, July 12, 1944.
Rosie, captured Japanese army dog, Saipan. July 12, 1944.
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