From what I’ve read and from talking to a friend of mine who went in with the first wave at Utah beach, the current carried the landing force over a mile to the south of the intended landing area. As a result the landing occurred at a relatively unopposed portion of the beach. My friend said the worst part of Normandy for him was cutting down dead paratroopers from trees and such. He was wounded 3 times during his time in Europe.
It must really be interesting talking to your friend. He’s your connection with history. I can’t imagine too many more grisly tasks than cutting down your fellow warriors from the trees. A hand-salute to your friend.