h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hi Katherine

I was wondering why the 60th anniversary of Operation Varsity was not featured on here last week? The airborne crossing of the Rhine on 24th March 1945 was the largest airborne operation in history. There were services in this country as well as in Germany. The Red Devils parachuted into Hamminkeln and there was a service at the Reichswald War Cemetery, where many who died in the operation are buried. This service was attended by about 130 veterans amongst others and a wreath was laid on behalf of Her Majesty's Government by Ivor Caplin MP. (And by the way, Hamminkeln is twinned with Sedgefield.)

Those of us who know anything about Operation Varsity cannot understand why no-one else has ever heard about it, but when even a site like this fails to mention the 60th anniversary it is hardly surprising that there is little awareness in the general population.

The 2nd Bn Ox & Bucks, which provided the coup de main party for 'D'Day, also supplied the coup de main party for Operation Varsity. Many who were heroes at Pegasus bridge and Horsa Bridge survived only to perish at the head of an immense airborne invasion of Germany. Veterans of both tell me that Varsity was far, far worse than the Normandy invasion which received plenty of coverage for its 60th anniversary.

But it is not too late. A feature now, about the anniversary, is still viable and may bring out more memories and stories.

Thanks for listening.