termined in training that the demolition personnel would work as a rubber boat crew and that the number six would be the maximum number of men that could be carried in one boat. Each six-man NCDU was given a number starting with NCDU-1. To encourage unit rivalry, each was given a nickname - Kaine's Killers, Heidemen's Hurricanes, Jeter's Mosquitoes. Training and facilities at Fort Pierce improved by leaps and bounds and consequently the later units which were sent out were very well trained.In preparation for the Allied assaults at OMAHA Beach and UTAH Beach, the Naval Combat Demolition Units trained in ship salvage, rocket disposal, mine recognition, and the assault demolition practices of the British. Of particular concern was demolition of the obstacle Element "C", or Belgian Gate. Large numbers of this three ton welded steel obstacle had been discovered along the entire coast of France. Inasmuch as this was an entirely new obstacle to the Naval Combat Demolition Units, considerable time had to be spent in the determination of the best methods for its destruction.In June 1944 Naval Combat Demolition Units embarked for the coast of France and the planned assaults on the beaches of OMAHA and UTAH. History has recorded well the assaults on these infamous beaches. The Naval Combat Demolition Units were instrumental in clearing the beaches, making way for the landings of personnel and equipment. On OMAHA beach the method of clearance on the assault phase was accomplished by the use of the two-pound Hagansen pack. Each man was carrying about twenty of these two-pound charges, safety fuse and detonator assemblies, and continued working until the rising tide prevented further clearance. Post assault clearance, i.e. after the tide receded, was accomplished with tank dozers, caterpillar tractors, and salvage explosives. On UTAH beach all obstacles were high and dry on arrival. The intensity of the enemy gunfire was not as severe as that of OMA...
