WW2 - Operation Market Garden

[pmjd2000]

My question is, what was the significance to the larger operation of the crossing of the River WAAL, Nijmegen, by the 504 Parachute Infantry Regiment during Operation Market Garden?

[Pootle]

Larger rivers like the Waal could not be pontooned hence had to secure the bridge. 504th was to take the bridge and wait for the amoured column. 'Hold until relieved, hold until relieved'

[derekpara]

The significance of this outstandingly brave action was that it enabled the North end of Nijmegen bridge to be captured so that the British armour could cross and relieve the troops of the Ist Airborne Division holding on in Arnhem. Although the British armour crossed the bridge it did not press on to Arnhem, much to the anger of the American troops, because they 'could not proceed without infantry support ' along the single,narrow road.

[opsmeister]

It was considered very helpful...