101st Airborne

The 101st Airborne chronicles the division's daring operations during World War II, highlighting their critical role in Operation 'Market Garden' and the ensuing battles.

In 101st Airborne, the narrative unfolds with the division's withdrawal from the front lines in late June 1944, after their operations in the Cotentin and around Carentan. By July, they returned to England aboard LSTs, preparing for their next significant mission. On September 17, 1944, they once again took to the skies, this time as part of the airborne element of Operation 'Market Garden'. Their objective was to secure Hell’s Highway, facilitating the advance of ground forces toward Arnhem.

The operation itself has sparked considerable debate among World War II historians. Was it a bold strategy aimed at hastening the end of the war, or an ill-fated misuse of resources that could have been better allocated elsewhere? With the benefit of hindsight, 101st Airborne presents a daring – albeit risky – incursion into enemy territory, led by a commander often criticized for his cautious approach. At the onset of September, Allied leaders believed they had the upper hand, as German forces appeared disorganized following their retreat through France and Belgium.

As the 101st parachuted into the heart of enemy territory north of Eindhoven, they initially faced minimal resistance, achieving most of their objectives by the end of September 17. However, their primary target, a bridge over the Wilhelmina Canal, was destroyed by German forces, forcing the division to adapt quickly. The narrative details their subsequent challenges and triumphs, showcasing the tenacity and fighting spirit of the Screaming Eagles during seventy-two days of intense combat against formidable German troops.