Join us in conversation with Museum Samuel Zemurray Stone Senior Historian John Curatola, PhD, author of Armies Afloat: How the Development of Amphibious Operations in Europe Helped Win World War II, which explores the US Army’s journey in mastering amphibious warfare—an endeavor that required years of rigorous training, joint-force cooperation, and groundbreaking military strategy.

A reception from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. will precede the event, and Curatola will sign copies of his book following the presentation. Preorder your copy of Armies Afloat from the Museum Store.

For additional information, please email Connie Gentry, Conference and Programs Manager, at connie.gentry@nationalww2museum.org.

About Armies Afloat: How the Development of Amphibious Operations in Europe Helped Win World War II

The D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, stand as one of the most famous moments in US military history. Yet behind this legendary assault lies a remarkable story of innovation, adaptation, and strategic development. Through a meticulous and engaging analysis, John Curatola delves into the extensive preparations that made victory possible, revealing how the Army—traditionally a land-based force—transformed itself to conduct large-scale amphibious operations, working alongside the Navy and Air Force in an unprecedented joint effort. From the Pacific theater to the shores of Normandy, Armies Afloat explores how constant assessment, adaptation, and innovation enabled the Allies to outmaneuver and ultimately defeat the Axis powers. Combining rich historical detail with compelling storytelling, this book is an essential read for military history enthusiasts, strategists, and anyone fascinated by the evolution of modern warfare.

About the Author

John Curatola, PhD (LtCol, USMC Ret), is the Samuel Zemurray Stone Senior Historian at the Jenny Craig Institute for the Study of War and Democracy. A US Marine Corps officer of 22 years, he graduated from the University of Nebraska and is a veteran of Operation Provide Hope in Somalia, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and the 2005 Indian Ocean tsunami relief effort. He holds master’s degrees in both American and military history. With a PhD from the University of Kansas, Curatola’s research focuses on World War II, airpower, and the early Cold War period.