During which major operation did NCDUs first see deployment?

The correct answer is that the Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs) first saw deployment during Operation OVERLOAD, which is the code name for the Allied invasion of Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944. This operation was a pivotal moment in World War II, marking the beginning of the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation. The primary role of the NCDUs was to conduct demolition operations to clear obstacles on the beaches, facilitating the landing of Allied forces. Their expertise in underwater demolition and combat swimming was crucial to overcoming the fortifications established by the enemy.

In contrast, the other operations listed occurred much later and involved different military strategies and contexts. For instance, Operation ENDURING FREEDOM was launched in response to the 9/11 attacks and focused on military actions in Afghanistan, while Operation DESERT STORM pertained to the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 from Iraqi occupation. Operation IRAQI FREEDOM was associated with the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. These operations occurred after the initial deployment of NCDUs, which emphasizes the significance of Operation OVERLOAD in the history of amphibious warfare and the specialized roles that evolved within Navy operations.