Airborne Assault on Holland: An Interim Report

This work highlights the role of air power as the Allies attempted to penetrate German defenses at the Siegfried Line. The work reflects the circumstances of the time and the desire to find good even in unfortunate circumstances and should be read with this in mind. Allied airborne paratroops and glider-borne units converged on Arnhem. Unfortunately, stiff German resistance forced their eventual withdrawal; Allied tactical air power prevented even heavier friendly losses, but could not turn defeat into victory.

This boldly conceived operation involved the Eighth and Ninth Air Forces in a variety of missions: troop transport, fighter escort, flak neutralization, air cover, and re-supply of ground forces.

Originally published shortly after key air campaigns, the Wings at War series captures the spirit and tone of America's World War II experience. Eyewitness accounts of Army Air Forces' aviators and details from the official histories enliven the story behind each of six important AAF operations.

Originally published in 1945 by Headquarters, Army Air Forces, Office of Assistant Chief of Staff, Intelligence, Washington, D.C., as a soft cover booklet measuring 6 × 9.25 inches.

• Foreword

• The Situation

  • Army Supply and Airborne Training

  • Preparation for the Attack

  • Plans of IX Troop Carrier Command

• Narrative of the Operation

  • Intention and Plan

  • RAF Starts

  • Enemy Strikes Back

  • Weather Interferes

  • Reinforcement Impossible

  • Corridor Made Firm

  • British Withdrawn

  • Glider Phase of the Operation

  • Pathfinder Activity

  • Air Evacuation

  • Air-Sea Rescue Services

  • German Air Force Reaction to the Airborne Landings

  • Details of Enemy Daylight Air Operations

  • Details of Enemy Night Air Operations

  • Conclusion

  • Statistics

  • Conclusions

  • Commendations

• The Epic Struggle of the First Airborne Division

  • Report on Arnhem Operation, 18-25 September 1944

  • Reaches Division Headquarters

  • On Night Patrol

  • Word of Evacuation

  • Praises Resupply Airmen

• 62 pages

• 2 photos

• 1 cover illustration

• 6 maps