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The invasion of Europe would be the first action for the 101st Airborne Division. Under the command of Brigadier General Maxwell Taylor, the division would air-assault just inland from Utah Beach in Normandy, capturing the beach exits and securing the southern flank. While the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment was the core of the division, the 501st PIR and 506th PIR were attached to the 101st for Operation Overlord and wore the Screaming Eagle on their shoulders. Due to a shortage of aircraft, most of the 327th Glider Infantry Regiment was to be landed by ship rather than air. Support was provided by other divisional units including artillery, medical, engineer, signal and headquarters.