We thank God that you are still here too Rocky!
I always think of my Dad on this day too.
450 ships and 125,000 allied troops took part in "Operation Avalanche".
(My Dad sailed from the port of Oran)
"US rangers hit the beach 20 minutes in advance of the main assault force at 0310. British 10Corps landed under heavy naval bombardment.
The untested men of the 36th infantry division came ashore at 0330 WITHOUT supporting fire...All 6 waves of the 36th Division assault element were ashore by 0610....US Artillery and armor units were delayed coming ashore and disorganized when they arrived. Amid the confusion, many leading assault elements found themselves facing enemy tanks without adequate antiarmor weapons, and only through determination and individual heroism were some American forces able to move inland."
"...German counterattacks continued throughout the day, but were repulsed as Fifth Army strengthened it's lodgment. Reinforcements, support troops (my Dad with 206th MP Co landed at 0830), and supplies poured ashore.
By nightfall, British 10 Corps was 3 miles inland... US VI Corps was 5 miles inland...Elements of the U.S. 45th Division were also sent ashore during the night of Sept 9th to reinforce the 36th Division".
here's a photo of USS Philadelphia laying a smoke screen to obscure the view of the enemy & provide cover against air attacks before the landing armada gets close to shore on 9/9/43.
photo of USS Savannah hit by German radio controlled Fritz X bomb. The bomb hit a gun turret and penetrated deep into her hull before exploding 
9/11/43
Remembering all the brave men who were there 66 years ago today.