Operation Varsity

Operation Varsity was launched on 24 March 1945 in support of the Allied crossing of the Rhine. British 6th Airborne Division and US 17th Airborne Division landed east of the river near Wesel and Hamminkeln to seize key ground, roads and crossings behind the German defensive line.

The airborne forces achieved their principal objectives and linked with advancing ground troops, although casualties were significant. Varsity helped secure the bridgehead from which Allied armies accelerated their final advance across northern Germany.