General Eisenhower had doubts in the face of a "well trained, well equipped and battle-hardened" enemy. If the invasion of Normandy failed, this is the message he would have relayed to the public.
Our landings in the Cherbourg-Havre area have failed to gain a satisfactory foothold and I have withdrawn the troops. My decision to attack at this time and place was based upon the best information available. The troops, the air and the Navy did all that Bravery and devotion to duty could do. If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt it is mine alone.
