The Allied attempt to seize bridges deep in enemy territory during Operation Market-Garden culminates in a desperate battle for Arnhem. The ambitious plan aimed to shorten the war by a massive airborne assault, with British, American, and Polish forces tasked with securing key bridges. However, the presence of nearby German Panzer divisions turned the objective into a catastrophic engagement, particularly for the British 1st Airborne Division and Polish 1st Airborne Brigade fighting for the Arnhem bridge. Ken Ford's account details the planning, initial setbacks, and the eventual tragic conclusion of this critical phase of the operation.

This volume, part of a trilogy on Operation Market-Garden, offers a focused account of the British airborne assault at Arnhem. The narrative examines the strategic context of the operation, its potential to shorten the war, and the critical roles of the British and Polish airborne forces. It details the challenges faced, including the unexpected presence of German Panzer divisions, and traces the events from planning to the operation's eventual conclusion. The book provides a specific look at the military engagements and decisions made during this pivotal moment in World War II.