A Bridge Too Far

An airborne assault refers to the use of paratroopers and gliders to land troops behind enemy lines, often before the deployment of ground forces. In A Bridge Too Far, this tactic forms the core of Operation Market-Garden’s “Market” phase, and it was the largest airborne assault in history. Ryan explores both the strategic ambition and logistical vulnerability of the plan.

The Arnhem bridge spanned the lower Rhine and was the northernmost objective of Operation Market-Garden. It symbolized the campaign’s ultimate goal of securing a route across the Rhine. Ryan treats the bridge as a central symbol of Allied ambition and their failure to secure it represents the operation’s turning point from hope to failure.

A major engagement within the broader campaign of Operation Market-Garden, the Battle of Arnhem saw British paratroopers attempt to hold the northern end of the Arnhem bridge for several days. While they initially secured the bridge, they were ultimately defeated by an unexpectedly strong German resistance. Ryan’s account highlights both the tactical missteps, like underestimating SS Panzer forces, and the extraordinary heroism of the Allied troops involved, many of whom died.