In an atmosphere of calm seriousness, devoid of the lightheartedness that normally marks holiday occasions, Williamsport is observing D-Day.

From early morning when news first reached this city of the Allied landings on continental Europe, local residents put aside their accustomed task, and dedicated the day to private and public prayers and to the exceptions of news bulletins.

Bells and whistles sounded at 6 a.m. Churches opened their doors shortly after that hour, but then persons had begun to cluster about the doors.

Long before dawn lights began to appear throughout the city and radios could be heard.

The entire community represented by an estimated 3,806 young men and women in military service abroad — gave evidence of being mindful of the gravity of today’s great warfare. Those families which are not themselves represented in the fighting units, were nonetheless considerate of the anxiety which friends and neighbors are bearing.

Business was at a standstill today as merchants kept their stores closed, professional services were largely curtailed.

Drug stores and food stores stayed opened as previously planned. Early in the day managements of liquor stores and taprooms, a bit confused about closing, but as the day wore on, most closed their doors. Many liquor establishments had D-Days signs on their doors.

A somewhat Sunday-like atmosphere prevailed on Williamsport’s business district’s streets. Policemen stood on city streets as pedestrians moved slowly by the closed stores, stopping briefly to look in windows. Traffic was light.

Many war plants made D-Day another workday putting into their jobs a new interest. One worker when questioned hurriedly said, “We got production to get out,” and returned hurriedly to his machine.