The capture of Carentan by the 101st Airborne Division was a significant military operation during the Normandy campaign of World War II. Following the D-Day landings, which occurred on June 6, 1944, American forces faced the daunting task of overcoming entrenched German defenses in the region. Carentan, a key town, served as a vital communications and supply hub between the Utah and Omaha Beach landings. The 101st, having parachuted in behind enemy lines, was tasked with securing the town to facilitate the movement of Allied forces and supplies across Normandy.

The battle for Carentan involved intense fighting as the paratroopers, led by Lt. Col. Robert G. Cole, faced fierce resistance from German troops. Utilizing their training and determination, the American soldiers advanced through the streets, clearing buildings and engaging in close-quarters combat. By the afternoon of June 12, following a combination of coordinated assaults and a strategic encirclement, the town was secured. This allowed the Allies to solidify their controls and set the stage for further operations in the area.

The successful capture of Carentan had immediate strategic implications, enabling better supply logistics for the Allied forces. It also showcased the effectiveness of airborne troops in unconventional warfare, setting a precedent for future air assault operations. The victory not only bolstered Allied morale but also intensified the pressure on German forces, contributing to the growing momentum for the liberation of Western Europe.