Start Bay’s Legacy: Honouring the Past, Empowering the Future
Nestled in the heart of Start Bay, Devon, lies Slapton Sands – a strikingly beautiful stretch of coastline. Today, it stands as one of the UK’s most picturesque seaside destinations, where families bask in the sun and children craft sandcastles along the shore.
But beneath the tranquil surface of Slapton’s waters lies a powerful, often untold story of sacrifice, resilience, and hard-won victory.
In April 1944, this serene beach became the stage for 'Exercise Tiger' – a crucial and harrowing rehearsal for the D-Day landings. Over 30,000 American troops descended on South Devon, honing their skills and preparing for the monumental task of liberating Europe from fascism.
Local residents were evacuated for six months to make way for the drills. President Eisenhower, determined to prepare his forces for the brutal realities of war, ordered the use of live ammunition during the exercise – a controversial decision aimed at toughening the troops for the chaos of Normandy.
However, miscommunication, errors in planning, and unforeseen circumstances resulted in tragedy. Friendly fire, misaligned naval bombardments, and a failure to coordinate signals led to the deaths of hundreds of servicemen.
The sorrow deepened the following day, 28th April 1944, when nine German E-boats unexpectedly intercepted the American landing forces during their second rehearsal. The ensuing attack claimed the lives of 749 U.S. servicemen.
Today, a Sherman tank, recovered from the seabed by local residents, sits solemnly at Slapton Sands as a memorial to those who lost their lives. It stands not only as a reminder of the cost of war but also of the unyielding spirit that perseveres in the face of tragedy.
Mistakes were made.
Communication breakdowns.
Risky decisions.
Unforeseen attacks.
Flawed formations.
These were errors that cost dearly – yet, despite it all, the mission of liberation succeeded.
Why This Story Inspires Start Bay Enterprises
At Start Bay Enterprises, we draw inspiration from this poignant chapter in history. The story of Exercise Tiger reflects the reality that even with the best intentions, leaders face setbacks, missteps, and unforeseen challenges.
But victory is still possible.
We exist to serve those who, despite obstacles, are determined to make a positive impact. Whether leading a charity or steering a corporate initiative, we partner with leaders who strive to do good – providing strategic insight, creative solutions, and unwavering support to help them achieve their mission.
Because even after tragedy, success can be within reach.
Explore the SERVICES we offer or CONTACT US today for a free initial consultation.