‘There have been no reports of enemy air activity on this side of the Channel during the night or so far this morning.

‘The oppressed nations received the first news that big events were about to happen when a SHAEF representative broadcast to them that a new phase of Allied air offensive had opened. People in enemy occupied territory who live near the coast were warned to leave their homes as soon as they received warning of the coming attack. It would come about an hour before the attack and then they ought at once to make with all speed for the open country.

‘After communiqué one had been issued, General Eisenhower broadcast to the people of Eastern Europe, announcing the landing as part of the concerted United Nations’ plan for the liberation of Europe. He asked them to wait for the signal to rise and strike the enemy.

‘“The day will come,” he said, “when I shall need your united strength. Until that day I call on you for the hard task of discipline and restraint.”

‘Addressing the French people especially, General Eisenhower expressed his pride at having under his command the gallant forces of France.

‘As the initial landing was being made in France, he emphasised the importance of his warning message. “A premature rising of all Frenchmen may prevent you from being of maximum help to your country in the critical hour. Be patient. Prepare. Great battles lie ahead.”

‘General Eisenhower concluded, “I call upon all who love freedom to stand with us. Keep your faith staunch. Our armies are resolute. Together we shall achieve victory.”

‘Later, SHAEF announced that General de Gaulle had arrived in this country and would speak to France sometime today.

‘Communiqué one and General Eisenhower’s message was broadcast to the peoples of Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium and France in their own languages. Later, King Haakon of Norway, Dr Gerbrandy the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, and the Prime Ministers of Poland and Belgium themselves spoke to their fellow citizens.

‘This is the end of the special bulletin.’

There was a general scraping of chairs as the women moved away from their machines and gathered in groups to discuss what they’d heard. But Peggy wanted to quietly absorb everything, so she went outside into the yard and lit a cigarette. She’d noted she hadn’t been the only one to be moved by Eisenhower’s speech to the men under his command, and as the others stood around, the mood was thoughtful rather than celebratory.

‘It’s quite frightening, isn’t it?’ she said to Gracie, who’d come to sit on the wall beside her.