Photo By Pfc. Roberto Archila | British Army Brig. David Pack (left), Deputy Commanding General of plans for the 82nd...... read more read more
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NIJMEGEN, Netherlands - As part of the 80th anniversary of Operation Market Garden, the 82nd Airborne Division conducted the “Sunset March” in Nijmegen on Sep 20, 2024. Current Paratroopers and the citizens from the Dutch city met in solemn silence to pay homage to the 48 brave Paratroopers who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the battle to retake the city during World War II.
In 1944, Paratroopers of the 3-504th Parachute Infantry Regiment and 307th Engineer Battalion crossed the Waal River under heavy enemy fire in 26 small boats to capture the vital bridge at Nijmegen. 48 Paratroopers lost their lives in the attack to reclaim the bridge. 80 years later, with 48 light poles to represent each life lost, the city of Nimegen commemorated the anniversary of the largest airborne operation of World War II.
“Their actions have left the legacy that today’s airborne force strives to live up to, and I’m confident that we will make them proud [that] the men and women of the current generation are no less committed and no less able,” said Brigadier David Pack, Deputy Commanding General of Plans for the 82nd Airborne Division.
The Sunset March has been held every day since September 2014 to commemorate the sacrifice these brave soldiers of the Waal River crossing made. For the last 10 years, the citizens of Nijmegen aid in keeping the tradition alive. With the anniversary of the battle being the biggest attendance of the year, a veteran and a Paratrooper stand at the foot of every light pole. The event included a 908-meter walk over the Oversteek bridge located along the Waal River and ended with two monuments at the shore of the river inscribed with the names of the fallen Paratroopers from 3-504th Parachute Infantry Regiment and 307th Engineer Battalion.
The ceremony stands as a remembrance of those who represented for strength and courage and especially for those who gave their last full measure of devotion to liberate Europe from tyranny.
“Remembering what those who came before had to do to buy the privilege and freedom we experience today on a daily basis really matters,” said Pack.
| Date Taken: | 09.20.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 12.27.2024 10:41 |
| Story ID: | 488295 |
| Location: | NIJMEGEN, NL |
| Web Views: | 161 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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