How did the U.S. Navy last directly contribute to the fight against Germany?

The correct answer is C, which highlights the U.S. Navy's significant role in the Normandy landings, a pivotal event during World War II. On D-Day, June 6, 1944, the Navy was instrumental in the Allied invasion of German-occupied France. They facilitated the transportation of troops and supplies to the beaches of Normandy, supporting the ground forces that were crucial for the success of that operation. This strategic naval support was essential for establishing a foothold in Europe and contributed to the eventual defeat of Germany.

The option involving transporting troops across the Rhine River refers to activities that occurred later in the war, after the primary U.S. naval engagements during the Normandy invasion. The mention of the Italian fleet at Malta relates to naval engagements in the Mediterranean rather than direct contributions to the fight against Germany. Providing air support for ground troops is another aspect of military strategy, but in the context of this question, the Navy's direct involvement primarily aligns with the Normandy landings, making that answer the most accurate representation of its contribution.