Air Battle for Arnhem

Operation Market Garden was a battle over sixty years ago to take the bridges at Arnhem. The main problem was communications between the ground forces and the Royal Air Force. The 1st Airborne were taken by the RAF in towed gliders and showed courage to supply the ground troops with ammunition and food. 309 aircrew and 79 Air Dispatchers were killed, and 107 aircraft were shot down. F/Lt David Lord DFC was awarded the Victoria Cross for his courage and dedication. The Air Dispatchers' efforts to make sure the supplies were released from the aircraft were vital in getting vital supplies to the troops successfully.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 30 October 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Over sixty years ago, a pivotal battle unfolded that, had it succeeded, could have shortened the Second World War by six months. The operation to capture the bridges at Arnhem was assigned the code name Operation Market Garden, with "Market" referring to the air component and "Garden" to the subsequent ground operation. The primary challenge lay in establishing effective communication between the ground forces and the Royal Air Force's re-supply aircraft. It is the valiant efforts and unwavering courage displayed by these individuals at Arnhem that form the basis of this book.

Over a span of seven days, the 1st Airborne troops were transported by RAF towed gliders, showcasing remarkable bravery to ensure the ground troops received vital ammunition and sustenance to conquer the bridges at Arnhem. Their unwavering commitment came at a significant cost, with 309 aircrew and 79 Air Dispatchers losing their lives, along with 107 aircraft, including the men and aircraft supporting the main re-supply armada. Among these aircraft was F/Lt David Lord DFC, who flew one of the re-supply planes. Lord's remarkable bravery and selflessness were recognized with the prestigious Victoria Cross award. His unwavering determination exemplifies the unwavering commitment of the men of Transport Command to supply the ground troops.

The Air Dispatchers, affectionately known as ADs, deserve special recognition for their crucial role in ensuring the successful delivery of supplies. Their tireless efforts in coordinating the release of supplies from the aircraft and ensuring their delivery to the besieged troops on the ground were instrumental in securing the timely provision of essential resources. Their story, vividly recounted, serves as a commemorative tribute, honoring both the events and the remarkable individuals who participated in this historic operation.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399077750