This is the second in a series of interim reports published by Headquarters, Army Air Forces. The original manuscript was prepared by Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, Eighth Air Force, on the basis of official records and firsthand observation. This text has been abridged and edited in order to provide for combat personnel in all theaters a succinct summary of the planning and execution of the tactical use of heavy bombardment in the invasion of Normandy. The conscientious and able work of staff personnel in the theaters makes possible the publication of this series, the intent of which is to cover the more important campaigns and individual missions in all theaters of operations.