The Battle for Nijmegen: A Turning Point in World War II

The liberation of Nijmegen, a city in the Netherlands, during World War II was a pivotal moment in the Allied advance towards Germany. This battle, a key part of Operation Market Garden, saw fierce fighting and ultimately contributed to the Allied victory. Let's delve into the story of this epic struggle.

Operation Market Garden: A Bold Ambition

Operation Market Garden, launched in September 1944, was an ambitious plan to bypass the heavily fortified Siegfried Line and advance deep into Germany. The operation involved a massive airborne assault, codenamed 'Market', followed by a rapid advance by ground forces, codenamed 'Garden'.

The objective was to capture a series of bridges across the Rhine River, crucial for the Allied advance. Nijmegen was a key target, as it held the vital Waal Bridge, a strategic crossing point.

The Airborne Assault: A Difficult Start

The airborne assault began on September 17th, 1944, with paratroopers from the British 1st Airborne Division landing near Arnhem and the US 101st Airborne Division dropping near Eindhoven. However, the initial landings were hampered by bad weather and German resistance, causing significant casualties.

The paratroopers faced heavy opposition from German forces, and their progress towards the bridges was slow and costly. The British 1st Airborne Division, tasked with securing the bridge at Arnhem, faced the toughest challenge, eventually being pinned down and unable to capture the bridge.

The Battle for the Waal Bridge: A Crucial Victory

Meanwhile, the US 82nd Airborne Division, tasked with securing the Waal Bridge in Nijmegen, faced fierce resistance from the German 9th SS Panzer Division. The battle for the bridge raged for days, with both sides suffering heavy losses. The paratroopers, outnumbered and outgunned, fought with incredible tenacity, ultimately succeeding in capturing the bridge on September 20th.

The capture of the Waal Bridge was a crucial victory for the Allies. It allowed the British 30th Corps to advance north and join forces with the paratroopers, securing the bridgehead across the Rhine. The success at Nijmegen also relieved the pressure on the beleaguered 1st Airborne Division at Arnhem.

The Aftermath: A Turning Point

Although Operation Market Garden ultimately failed to achieve its primary objective of securing a bridgehead deep into Germany, the battle for Nijmegen was a significant victory for the Allies. It demonstrated the courage and determination of the paratroopers and contributed to the Allied advance toward Germany. The capture of the Waal Bridge also opened up a new front for the Allies, allowing them to launch further offensives from a secure position.

Legacy of the Battle

The battle for Nijmegen is remembered as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of the Allied soldiers who fought there. It is also a reminder of the resilience of the Dutch people, who endured years of Nazi occupation and ultimately helped to liberate their country.

The Waal Bridge in Nijmegen is now a symbol of freedom and a reminder of the crucial role that the city played in the Allied victory in World War II. Every year, on September 20th, the city celebrates the anniversary of the liberation with parades, speeches, and other events.

Further Reading

• "A Bridge Too Far" by Cornelius Ryan
• "The Battle for Nijmegen" by Charles Messenger