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Grave Netherlands

Grave, Netherlands 1944

Operation Market Garden September 1944

"On September 17, 1944, paratroopers of the 82nd Airborne Division’s 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR) descended onto Drop Zone O, near Overasselt in the Netherlands. Their mission was critical: secure the Grave Bridge over the Maas River to allow Allied forces an unbroken route toward Nijmegen and Arnhem in Operation Market Garden. Despite scattered landings due to heavy anti-aircraft fire, the paratroopers regrouped under fire, advancing on the bridge with swift and decisive action. Overcoming pockets of German resistance, they neutralized demolition charges set by retreating German forces, preserving the bridge for advancing British armor. Holding the bridge against counterattacks, the 504th established a strong defensive position, marking a key Allied victory in the operation."