During MARKET GARDEN, the Germans displayed their ability to mount an effective defence with ad hoc formations of units and individuals who, in this case, had escaped from the German fortresses along the North Sea coast. In retrospect, the failure to secure the sixty-mile Scheldt waterway between Antwerp and the sea, across which the Germans escaped, was a grievous error. These escapees, augmented by trainees from what was a rear area, were able to pose a significant threat to the pencil thin Hell’s Highway. But for the tough and experienced paratroopers of 101st Airborne Division, and their attached British armour, the Germans may have succeeded in inflicting a crushing reverse on an extremely exposed British 2nd Army.

It should be borne in mind that, while 101st and elements of the Guards Armoured Divisions were fighting on Hell’s Highway, further to the north, others were fighting equally desperate battles. The fighting by British and American troops in the Nijmegen/Groesbeek area, on The Island (between the Waal and the Rhine) and at Arnhem, is covered in separate Battleground volumes.

As a final point, I would like to explain that I have covered the principal memorials in the battle area. However, space has not permitted me to include details and photographs of every memorial to the 101st and every community’s memorial to its liberation. However, they can be easily found in town centres or at the scene of the action described in the following chapters.

I hope this book will encourage those studying MARKET GARDEN to visit and appreciate the highly significant battles fought on Hell’s Highway, the road to Arnhem.

At home or on the ground, enjoy the tour.