D-Day Invasion Of France, Navy Bombardment

The transcript describes the massive naval operation during D-Day, where thousands of ships crossed the English Channel, defying Hitler's belief that it was impassable. The operation involved 800 warships commencing a bombardment to sweep the beaches, with empty shells marking the day's events. Tired gun crews awaited the next barrage, highlighting the intensity and scale of the operation.

What does the phrase 'empty shells tell the story' imply about the events of the day?

Describe the condition of the gun crews as mentioned in the text.