Map of Counterattacks as Allies Advance

As the Allied invasion moves inland to become the battle of Normandy and beachheads grow in depth as thousands landed on well cleared coast (indicated by shading on the map) the constant threat of violent counterattack by the enemy becomes a closer and louder sound. Shown here are the two counterattack hubs of the Nazis. In the west where the Allied thrust from landing zones has resulted in the capture of Bayeux and a drive to the south where Caen is reported tottering (indicated by arrows from the invasion symbol), the Germans are reported using Rennes as a depot for troops and supplies. And as the allies threaten to cut off the Cherbourg peninsula, after penetrating communication lines with Paris at several points, preparations for counterattacks are reported being rushed both at Rennes and at Paris, which, as the arrows indicate, is expected to carry on the battle for the Seine Valley and adjacent territory. Arrows from Rennes point to the area which the Nazis are said to protect from the center. Bombs show where recent heavy air attacks have been made by allied fliers on the west French coast. (Photo by Bettmann Archive/Getty Images)