description Ginkelse Heide Overview
Ginkelse Heide is an expanse of lowland heath situated near the town of Ede in the province of Gelderland, the Netherlands. The area is characterized by its sandy, acidic soil and an open landscape dominated by heather and native grasses. It holds significant historical importance as one of the primary drop zones for British airborne forces during Operation Market Garden in September 1944. Today, the landscape is maintained as a nature reserve and serves as a memorial site, visited by hikers and military history enthusiasts.
help Ginkelse Heide FAQ
What happened at Ginkelse Heide during Operation Market Garden?
Ginkelse Heide served as a major airborne drop zone for British and Polish paratroopers during Operation Market Garden in September 1944. The 1st British Airborne Division landed there on September 18, 1944, as part of the second wave of airborne drops aimed at securing the road bridge at Arnhem.
Which military units landed at Ginkelse Heide?
The 1st British Airborne Division, commanded by Major-General Roy Urquhart, and the Polish 1st Independent Parachute Brigade, led by General Stanisław Sosabowski, landed at Ginkelse Heide during Operation Market Garden. The heathland near Ede was chosen because it was one of the few open areas large enough to serve as a drop zone near the Arnhem objective.
Can you visit Ginkelse Heide today?
Yes, Ginkelse Heide is a publicly accessible nature reserve near the town of Ede in the Netherlands. An annual airborne commemoration is held there, featuring parachute drops that reenact the 1944 landings and honor the soldiers who fought in Operation Market Garden.
How far is Ginkelse Heide from the Arnhem bridge that the paratroopers were trying to reach?
Ginkelse Heide is located approximately 10 kilometers from the Arnhem road bridge, the primary objective of the British 1st Airborne Division. This significant distance required the paratroopers to march through hostile territory to reach the bridge, which was a major factor in the operation's failure to hold the crossing.
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