Exercise Tiger
What was Exercise Tiger?
Exercise Tiger was the code name for a practice invasion for D-day in Normandy. It took place on the coastline around Slapton Sands in the South Hams, Devon. 30,000 American Troops took part in the event but almost 1405 people died after the horrific night which was to bring humiliation and destruction to the British Army. The exercise took place on the night of 27th April 1944 when eight tank landing ships were practicing off the shores of Slapton Sands. Soldiers failed to notice that a flotilla of nine German E-boats were fast approaching. They had been searching the area as part of routine when they stumbled across the Americans. Immediately, they opened fire and came away after killing 1405 allied soldiers. Most froze to death in the icy waters but others burnt in the ship flames.
Why was Exercise Tiger done at Slapton Sands?
D-day was to be planned at Utah beach in Normandy, France. Practices for D-day were held so that the American soldiers would know what to expect when the day happened. Slapton Sands was picked out to be used as a training beach as it was very similar to Utah beach.
Why did people have to move out of their homes?
Residents of Slapton Sands were told they had 6 weeks to move out of their homes so that the American soldiers had places to live whilst they were training. Furthermore, live ammunition was used on the beach to create as much of a realistic interpretation of what it would be like in Normandy so the area was too dangerous for residents to be living there. Everybody had to move out – taking their belongings, animals and crops with them. Many people went to stay with friends in nearby villages.
How did the residents feel about leaving their homes?
Many people found it difficult to leave behind everything – their homes, their livelihood, their community. Back in the 1940’s, people rarely moved out of the village they were born and families of all generations lived together. Children were excited as they thought it was just a big adventure however adults found it stressful and upsetting to leave everything behind. One elderly man said he wouldn’t move and would rather die in his own house than leave it behind.
Why was Exercise Tiger kept quiet until after D-day?
Exercise Tiger was kept quiet until after D-day because they didn’t want the Germans to know D-day was happening. Moreover, it was thought of as an embarrassment to the British Army as they had been caught out.