World War II D-Day Accounts from the Cornelius Ryan Collection

This collection features materials from Ohio University Libraries' Cornelius Ryan Collection of World War II Papers. Gathered as part of Ryan's research process while writing his book, The Longest Day, the accounts include questionnaires, interviews, and correspondence with soldiers who participated in the events surrounding D-Day.

These materials were digitized by request of the Canadian Research and Mapping Association (CRMA) in support of Project ’44, an interactive web map that allows users to explore WWII through digitally preserved maps, aerial imagery and war diaries. The CRMA and Ohio University Libraries have partnered to further enhance the use and discoverability of these primary sources by promoting volunteer transcription. Read more about the CRMA-OHIO WWII Transcription Project.

This project was previously limited to Canadian D-Day accounts but has been expanded to include the experiences of British and American veterans. New documents will be added regularly as digitization is ongoing.

Sensitive Content Warning: The Cornelius Ryan Collection of World War II Papers contains first-hand accounts of those who witnessed and experienced violent, traumatic events. Their stories, writings, and images convey the physical and emotional effects of war, and describe graphic scenes of battle in which many lives were lost.