In Their Shoes

This lesson uses the story of World War II veteran Harold McMurran to make a connection to how soldiers felt when going into battle on June 6, 1944 otherwise known as D-Day. Students will analyze Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower’s “Order of the Day” to understand the terminology used in this primary source. The lesson culminates with a writing exercise, utilizing the V-Mail system of World War II.

IN THEIR SHOES LESSON LINKS:

Document A: Photo of Harold McMurran

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Document B: Questions for a Hero

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Document C: Harold McMurran Biography

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Article LINK:

Veteran Recalls 'Horrible Day' In WWII

https://www.army.mil/article/127591/veteran_recalls_horrible_day_in_wwii

Document D:  Eisenhower’s Order of the Day

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Article LINK:

General Dwight D. Eisenhower's Order of the Day (1944)

https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/general-eisenhowers-order-of-the-day

Document E:  Order of the Day Activity

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Document F:  V-Mail (optional)

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Harold McMurran  Video LINK

D-Day “Things You Don’t Forget” | Memoirs Of WWII #14

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fd8okLRFUeQ

 Audio LINK

Audio of General Eisenhower reading his D-day "Order of the Day" for radio broadcast

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckH4ZwkuccA

Methods for Extension More Info Link

Mail Call: V-mail

https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/mail-call-v-mail