In Case of Failure
Our landings in the Cherbourg-Havre area have failed to gain a satisfactory foothold and I have withdrawn the troops. My decision to attack at this time and place was based on the best information available. The troops, the air and the Navy did all that bravery and devotion to duty could do. If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt it is mine alone.
—Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, July 5, 1944455
This message, if broadcast, would have announced one of the greatest disasters in history: the failure of the Allied invasion of Normandy. It is difficult to imagine the ramifications of such a scenario. Would Germany have had time to fully develop its jet aircraft, missile, and nuclear technologies and to ultimately prevail in “Fortress Europe?” Would the Soviets have conquered more or even all of Europe? Would the United States have eventually used nuclear weapons against Germany?
None of these questions can be answered and, fortunately, don’t have to be. General Eisenhower’s message was a handwritten note found in his belongings by an aide weeks after the invasion. He never had to deliver it to the public.
Although never used, Eisenhower’s “in case of failure” message provides two great insights into the events of D-Day. First, we see into the character of the Supreme Commander himself, with more evidence that he was a decent man. He would never have considered pointing a finger at subordinate commanders or the weather. Second, we have another reminder of just how uncertain success was on D-Day. In retrospect, many events of history may seem inevitable. Only when we go back and look at the details do we see how precarious those events were. The “in case of failure” message fully documents that success on this momentous day was not inevitable.
We should obviously be thankful for the skill of the commanders and the bravery of the troops who achieved this great victory. We should also be thankful for a God whose merciful providence made it possible.
No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.
—1 Corinthians 2:9