Strange symbols of modern amphibious war were the propellers of Rhino barges swung clear of the water across the sterns of two barges. Three of their four-power rise against the Devon hills, while Seabees completed assembly of pontoons.

Rhino barges were 175 feet long and 42 feet wide and constructed of steel and girders. Shallow of draft and capable of carrying huge loads, they served as lighters (supply transport boats) for delivering their cargo on flat beaches, one of the great problems of the European invasion. Self-propelled, they made their ungainly way with their decks loaded with an incredible quantity of tanks, trucks, jeeps and the infinite paraphernalia of combat.