USS LCI(L) 409 – Omaha Beach
After Action Reports
Western Task Force
AMPHIBIOUS OPERATIONS
INVASION OF NORTHERN FRANCE
WESTERN TASK FORCE
JUNE 1944
From: Commanding Officer USS LCI(L) 409 (OMAHA BEACH)
Although the operation was postponed one day, troops aboard were becoming stale from having been aboard a vessel of this size from 31 May until 6 June. Before sailing for the assault, they had been aboard over five full days. It is recommended that all assault troops be embarked at as late a date as possible, before sailing, for obvious reasons – especially on LCI(L)s.
No beach markings and no marked channel through obstacles were seen. One person waving a « Queen » flag was seen and used as a guide by this vessel and by the LCI(L) 410. It is felt that we fortunately picked an area free of obstacles but recommend that beach markings be established when channels are cleared.
One of the greatest difficulties was found in getting to the beach from the line of departures. Several loaded LCT’s and small boats hindered movements. These craft were standing off the beach and it was necessary to weave our way through them to gain the shore. They did not know where to go or had been ordered to stand off and in so doing were blocking the approach for other craft.
