Omaha's Amphibious Tanks Sank Offshore

On D-Day, 27 of the 29 Sherman DD amphibious tanks that the US 741st Tank Battalion launched offshore at Omaha Beach sank before reaching land. Each 35-ton tank used twin propellers and a raised waterproof canvas screen to float, but the system was designed for waves no higher than one foot. The tanks were launched about three miles from shore into waves reaching six feet, and some turned side-on to the swells, allowing water to overwhelm their screens. Most crewmen were rescued, but five died, and the loss of nearly all the swimming tanks deprived the assault troops of vital armored support.

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