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The Eighth Air Force, based in Britain, carried out strategic bombing missions that severely weakened German war power. Meanwhile, Allied forces launched campaigns from the UK into North Africa, Sicily, and Italy before preparing for the massive D-Day invasion in 1944.
By the time of the Normandy landings, 1.6 million American troops were stationed in Britain, with 1.2 million joining the battle on the continent within three months. More than 3 million Americans passed through the British Isles during the war, forging lasting bonds between the two nations.
The Cambridge American Cemetery stands as a lasting tribute to the sacrifices made and the enduring partnership between the U.S. and the UK.
Before December 1941:
December 1941: The U.S. entered World War II, leading to a massive influx of American air, ground, and naval forces into Britain.
August 1942 – May 1945: The Eighth Air Force, based in Britain, launched strategic bombing campaigns against German targets across Europe.
November 1942: 75% of the American troops stationed in Britain were deployed to North Africa as part of the Allied invasion.
1943: U.S. forces took part in campaigns to liberate North Africa, Sicily, and Italy, influencing troop deployments.
Mid-1943: The Allied decision to launch a cross-Channel invasion of Normandy in 1944 led to a renewed buildup of U.S. forces in Britain—nicknamed the “Friendly Invasion.”
June 6, 1944 (D-Day): 1.6 million American troops were stationed in Britain.
Within three months of D-Day: 1.2 million U.S. troops were deployed into battle on the European continent.
1942–1945: Over 3 million Americans passed through the British Isles during World War II, forming strong bonds with their British allies.
More than 200,000 fallen service members are honored at an ABMC site. Search the burial database.
