Mulberry A

Mulberry A was one of two artificial harbors constructed by the British during World War II. These innovative structures were designed to aid in unloading supplies off the coast of Normandy, France, immediately after the invasion of Europe on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Mulberry A was situated off Omaha Beach in the American sector. Each harbor could move 7,000 tons of vehicles and supplies daily. They consisted of floating roadways supported by pontoons, connected to pierheads resting on the seafloor. These were protected by sunken caissons, scuttled ships, and floating breakwaters. The concept arose after the failed Dieppe raid, as a way to overcome German coastal defenses by bringing a port directly to the invasion beaches. Although intended to function until Cherbourg was captured, Mulberry A was destroyed by a storm shortly after becoming operational.