THE AMERICAN "MULBERRY" OPERATION--BREAKWATER OF SUNKEN SHIPS SHIELDED LANDINGS ON NORMANDY IN VIOLENT STORM, JUNE 1944.

Strategic sinking 23 freighters, bow to stern on D-Day Plus One and Two created a breakwater behind which allied invasion craft unloaded troops and supplies during a furious storm that ripped the Normandy beaches.   Six Coast Guard officers, all experts in dealing with treacherous surf currents, participated in the supervision of the sinkings and were commended for their efficient accomplishment of the task.  Here, a mountainous wave beats against one of the sunken vessels, the CENTURION, key ship of the chain, as landing operations proceed.  Just beyond the deck the CENTURION at left may be seen the top of a "Phoenix" which broke loose from its mooring farther out during the storm.  A Liberty ship is standing by.
OFFICIAL U.S. COAST GUARD PHOTO.