During World War II, Operation Chicago was carried out by the Allies in 1944. It was an airborne insertion of the U.S. 101st Airborne Division into Vierville (near Normandy) on the night of 5 June, 1944, and was part of the invasion of northern France (Operation Overlord).

The 101st Airborne didn't have great luck in Operation Chicago. Inexperienced piloting and difficult terrain caused them to be badly scattered about the countryside. One of the major problems was that the aircraft were piloted by transport pilots, with little or no combat experience. As a result, many of them were panicked by the defensive fire and dropped their cargo early or off course

Some fell in the sea or deliberately flooded areas. After 24 hours, only 3,000 of the 101st had rallied. Many continued to roam and fight behind enemy lines for days.

See also

• Operation Detroit