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What were the main goals of the U.S. 4th Infantry Division after landing at Utah Beach?
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Utah Beach
Soldiers of the 4th Infantry Division wade ashore at Victor sector, Utah Beach, on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Amphibious tanks are lined up at the water's edge.
The primary objectives of the U.S. 4th Infantry Division upon landing at Utah Beach were as follows:
- Secure the coast: The division was tasked with crossing the beach and seizing control of the coastal roads.
- Link up with airborne units: They were to establish contact with the paratroopers from the 82nd and 101st Airborne divisions, who had been dropped inland five hours prior to the seaborne assault.
- Prepare for further advancement: Once the beachhead was established and contact with airborne forces was made, the division was to be prepared to attack toward the port of Cherbourg at the northern tip of the Cotentin Peninsula.1