Recently in class, we discussed The Allied attempt to deceive Nazi Germany into thinking that the expected invasion of France would take place from Dover to Calais (and many other places - as a ruse for the real landing in Normandy) in northeastern France.
The Nazis took the bait!
This was an elaborate plan of military bases (aka the First US Army Group - FUSAG) false communications, artificial harbors/ runways, rubber/ fabric tanks, boats, planes, trucks (this operation used real equipment as well) and thousands of men worked as a phantom army near Dover, England and in Scotland.
The commanding General of the phantom Army (FUSAG) had to be well-known in order for the deception to be credible. The perfect choice was available...George S. Patton.
As fate would have it, Patton had been sidelined (nearly fired) from the war because of his actions in the Sicily Campaign. During the invasion, Patton had visited hospitals where his men were recuperating from injuries. While visiting the hospitals Patton encountered 2 soldiers who were suffering from "combat fatigue" and he repeatedly berated and slapped them in front of the media and medical staff. The media firestorm led to his "dismissal" in Sicily. But, the Army "gave" him the "option" to lead FUSAG in "the role" of its' acting commander.
Patton Movie Clips (3:23)
Patton played his part well (probably the most convincing part of the whole deception) and helped The Allies successfully land at Normandy. For his role Patton was rewarded with a real command -The US Third Army- which played a vital role in the Battle of the Bulge and the ultimate defeat of Nazi Germany.
George Patton...a Phantom General! His greatest victory ever?
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