One hundred and one soldiers assigned to the U.S. Army’s 110st Airborne Division (Air Assault) are currently participating in commemorative events throughout the Netherlands, honoring the 80th Anniversary of WWII operation “Market Garden” — which followed June 1944 efforts at Normandy Beach.
Beginning September 13 and running until September 22, units have already taken part in several nearby ceremonies, parades, commemorations and monuments unveiled, with much more planned.
In a written statement, U.S. Army Major General Brett Sylvia noted that the division showcased its “trademark grit and audacity” in Operation Market Garden all those years ago — jumping behind enemy lines expecting to fight for roughly three days.
Instead, units engaged in continuous for more than two months.
Eighty years later, Sylvia acknowledged the “Screaming Eagles” continue that legacy and stand ready for the next “Rendezvous with Destiny.”
On Monday, citizens observed a round canopy parachuting team in Eerde, as well as a 101st Airborne Division Band performance in Meierijstad.
On Tuesday, the 101st Airborne Division Band will take its talents to Eerde, where there will also be an “Air Assault Operation” helicopter and combat demonstration. This is the same location 101st paratroopers landed eight decades ago. The 101st Band will finish the day with a “Freedom Concert” in Sint-Oedenrode, alongside a commemoration of Eerde’s liberation.
On Wednesday, locals will embrace a commemoration of Eindhoven’s liberation, before closing out the week with PFC Joe Mann and Lt. Col. Robert Cole memorials, a Herdenking Airborne Monument, a sunset march in Nijmegen, a food and logistics symposium, Waal Crossing and Neunen commemorations, and a Meierijstad monument dedication.
