The main invasion covered the five beaches code-named Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword. The American forces landed at Utah and Omaha beach, and also the clifftop position of Pointe-du-Hoc. The British, Canadian and Free French forces landed at Gold, Juno and Sword beaches. Paratroopers were dropped in the night before behind enemy lines ot take strategic positions and attack German artillery and other units.