Nijmegen’44 Forever Free

It’s Sunday 17 September 1944 as the Allies launch Operation Market Garden. The objective: to gain possession of the bridges over the major rivers and canals in the occupied Netherlands through attacks by airborne troops.
To force a breakthrough, on Wednesday 20 September the American paratroopers of the U.S. 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment cross the Waal river in 26 canvas boats, within sight of the German occupiers. German artillery is knocked out and the rail bridge and traffic bridge are then attacked from two sides. By the end of the afternoon they are in Allied hands. The paratroopers have suffered significant losses, but thanks to their efforts Nijmegen has finally been liberated! We must continue to commemorate and pass on this heroic crossing and the valiant efforts by all the Allied troops.

On 20 September 2009 Nijmegen will be commemorating to the day the 65th anniversary of Operation Market Garden, and the city will be celebrating the 65th anniversary of liberation. Under the name Nijmegen ’44 Forever Free the city authorities will be mounting a varied programme for both young and old.