After the Germans' retreat following D-Day, "Fortress Brest" became one of the pockets of German resistance. It was commanded by General Ramcke, of the 2nd Parachutist Division. In August 1944, Allied troops arrived in front of Brest's ramparts. The civil population was invited to evacuate on 7 August. The place du Château was particularly affected by the bombardments of 14 August in preparation for an assault. On 25 August General Ramcke issued the order "I count on every parachutist doing his duty to the utmost with a fanatical zeal. The 1st Division was immortalised at Monte Cassino. The 2nd will be immortalised at Brest."