BOOKSHELF - British Armor Repels Panzer Counterattack - XMAX-HASTINGS-SWORD-BEACH PART 2

JUNE 6, 1944 SWORD BEACHMax Hastings, Part Two: As British forces advanced inland from Sword Beach toward Caen, severe traffic jams, minefields, and cautious responses by inexperienced troops slowed operational momentum. Heavy German resistance at strongpoint Hillman created additional delays. However, veteran tank crews of the Staffordshire Yeomanry decisively defeated a major afternoon counterattack by the German 21st Panzer Division. Exploiting German command confusion and Rommel's absence, infantry elements from the King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry fought toward Caen. Halting at Lebisey Wood as night fell, the Allies secured the beachhead, even though Caen remained uncaptured on day one. (2)