D Day

Portsmouth played a central role in the D Day invasion of Normandy in June 1944. Not only was it a place of departure on the day but the Supreme Allied Commander, General Eisenhower, had his headquarters at Southwick House. Portsmouth’s involvement was not just one day; the build up of troops and materials had been filling local streets for many months. In the aftermath, during June and July 1944, Portsmouth Dockyard repaired 418 ships and landing crafts.